Surface cleaning apparatus, cyclonic air treatment member and surface cleaning apparatus including the same

ABSTRACT

A surface cleaning apparatus comprises an air treatment chamber with a moveable member positioned therein. An end wall of the air treatment chamber is openable in response to a moveable member being longitudinally translated through at least the portion of the air treatment chamber. The driving assembly includes a handle and a drive rod that is rotatably mounted about a longitudinally extending axis of the drive rod between a stored position in which the moveable member is in a stored position and an operable position in which the moveable member is translatable through at least a portion of the chamber. In the stored position, the handle is longitudinally spaced from the first and second ends of the air treatment chamber and, when the driving assembly is in the operable position, the driving assembly is operable to longitudinally translate the moveable member through at least a portion of the chamber.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.16/806,726, filed on Mar. 2, 2020, now allowed, which itself is acontinuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/447,308,filed on Jun. 20, 2019 and issued as U.S. Pat. No. 10,966,583 on Apr. 6,2021, which itself is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 16/254,918, filed on Jan. 23, 2019 and issued as U.S. Pat. No.10,828,649 on Nov. 10, 2020, the entirety of which is incorporatedherein by reference.

FIELD

This application relates to the field of cyclonic air treatment membersand surface cleaning apparatus including the same.

INTRODUCTION

The following is not an admission that anything discussed below is partof the prior art or part of the common general knowledge of a personskilled in the art.

Various types of surface cleaning apparatus are known, including uprightsurface cleaning apparatus, canister surface cleaning apparatus, sticksurface cleaning apparatus, central vacuum systems, and hand carriablesurface cleaning apparatus such as hand vacuums. Further, variousdesigns for cyclonic hand vacuum cleaners, including battery operatedcyclonic hand vacuum cleaners, are known in the art.

SUMMARY

This summary is intended to introduce the reader to the more detaileddescription that follows and not to limit or define any claimed or asyet unclaimed invention. One or more inventions may reside in anycombination or sub-combination of the elements or process stepsdisclosed in any part of this document including its claims and figures.

In accordance with one broad aspect of this disclosure, which may beused by itself or any other aspect set out herein, a moveable member maybe positioned in the air treatment chamber, such as a cyclone. Themoveable member may comprise a porous member (such as a screen orshroud) and/or a cleaning member, wherein the cleaning member ispositioned between a longitudinally extending outer sidewall of the airtreatment chamber and a sidewall of the porous member. A handle may bedrivingly connected to the moveable member by a driving linkage whereinpart of the driving linkage extends through a longitudinally extendingslot in the longitudinally extending outer sidewall. In thisconfiguration, the moveable member is longitudinally translatablethrough at least a portion of the chamber by a handle that is positionedexterior to the air treatment chamber. Accordingly, a screen or otherporous air outlet member may be cleaned without a user inserting theirhand into the air treatment member.

In accordance with this broad aspect, there is provided a surfacecleaning apparatus comprising:

-   -   (a) an air flow path extending from a dirty air inlet to a clean        air outlet;    -   (b) an air treatment member having an air treatment chamber        positioned in the air flow path, the air treatment chamber        comprising an air treatment chamber air inlet, an air treatment        chamber air outlet, an openable first end, a longitudinally        spaced apart second end having the air treatment chamber air        outlet_and a longitudinally extending sidewall, the sidewall        having a longitudinally extending slot, wherein the air        treatment chamber air outlet comprises a longitudinally        extending porous member having a longitudinally extending porous        sidewall;    -   (c) a suction motor positioned in the air flow path upstream of        the clean air outlet;    -   (d) a moveable member positioned in the air treatment chamber,        the moveable member comprising at least one of the porous member        and a cleaning member positioned in the air treatment chamber        between the sidewall of the air treatment chamber and the porous        sidewall; and,    -   (e) a handle that is drivingly connected to the moveable member        by a driving linkage and part of the driving linkage extends        through the slot whereby the moveable member is longitudinally        translatable through at least a portion of the chamber.

In some embodiments, the moveable member may be moveable from anoperating position in which the moveable member is positioned towardsthe second end and a cleaned position in which the moveable member istranslated longitudinally away from the second end.

In some embodiments, in the cleaned position, at least a portion of themoveable member is exterior of the air treatment chamber.

In some embodiments, the moveable member comprises the cleaning memberand the cleaning member may be moveable from an operating position inwhich the cleaning member abuts the second end and a cleaned position inwhich the moveable member is translated longitudinally away from thesecond end.

In some embodiments, the cleaning member may comprise an annular member.

In some embodiments, the air treatment member may comprise a cyclonehaving a centrally positioned cyclone axis of rotation.

In some embodiments, the porous member may be tapered towards theopenable first end.

In some embodiments, the surface cleaning apparatus may further comprisea dirt collection chamber external to the air treatment member chamberand the air treatment member chamber has a dirt outlet in communicationwith the dirt collection chamber, wherein air rotates in a direction ofrotation in the air treatment chamber and the slot may be positioned inthe sidewall in the direction of rotation downstream from the dirtoutlet.

In some embodiments, the slot may be positioned in the sidewall in thedirection of rotation up to 90° downstream from the dirt outlet.

In some embodiments, the first end may be openable in response to themoveable member being longitudinally translatable through the chamber.

In some embodiments, the surface cleaning apparatus may further comprisean openable lock operable between a locked position in which the firstend is secured in a closed position and an open position in which thefirst end is moveable to an open position and the lock may be moveablefrom the locked position to the open position in response to themoveable member being longitudinally translatable through the chamber.

In some embodiments, the driving linkage may operably engage the lock tomove the lock from the locked position to the open position as themoveable member is longitudinally translated through the chamber.

In some embodiments, the driving linkage may comprise a longitudinallyextending drive rod.

In some embodiments, the driving linkage may operably engage the firstend to open the first end as the moveable member is longitudinallytranslated through the chamber.

In some embodiments, the moveable member may operably engage the lock tomove the lock from the locked position to the open position as themoveable member is longitudinally translated through the chamber.

In some embodiments, the slot may have a first longitudinally extendingside and a second longitudinally extending side that is spaced from andfaces the first longitudinally extending side, wherein the drivinglinkage may have a portion that travels longitudinally through the slotbetween the first and second longitudinally extending sides, wherein thefirst longitudinally extending side meets an inner surface of thesidewall of the air treatment chamber at a first juncture and the firstjuncture is angled or chamfered.

In some embodiments, the slot has a first longitudinally extending sideand a second longitudinally extending side that is spaced from and facesthe first longitudinally extending side, wherein the driving linkage hasa portion that travels longitudinally through the slot between the firstand second longitudinally extending sides, wherein a sealing member ispositioned between the first and second longitudinally extending sides.Alternately, or in addition, the sealing member may be placed exteriorto the air treatment chamber adjacent the slot (e.g., on an outer wallof the air treatment member adjacent the slot). The sealing member maycomprise a deformable member that may be provided on at least one of thefirst and second longitudinally extending sides or on an outer wall ofthe air treatment member.

In some embodiments, the air treatment member may be removably mountedto the surface cleaning apparatus and the sealing member may be providedon the surface cleaning apparatus and is removably received in the slotwhen the air treatment member is mounted on the surface cleaningapparatus. For example, the sealing member comprises a spline.

In accordance with another broad aspect of this disclosure, which may beused by itself or any other aspect set out herein, a moveable member ispositioned in an air treatment chamber, and a handle may be drivinglyconnected to the moveable member by a driving linkage wherein part ofthe driving linkage extends through an opening in an end wall of the airtreatment member. In this configuration, the moveable member islongitudinally translatable axially through at least a portion of theair treatment chamber be using the handle to move the driving linkageaxially through the end wall of the air treatment chamber. Accordingly,an end of the air treatment chamber opposed to the end wall may beopenable and the axial movement of the handle may push dirt out the openend.

In accordance with this broad aspect, there is provided a surfacecleaning apparatus comprising:

-   -   (a) an air flow path extending from a dirty air inlet to a clean        air outlet;    -   (b) an air treatment member having an air treatment chamber        positioned in the air flow path, the air treatment chamber        comprising an air treatment chamber air inlet, an air treatment        chamber air outlet, an openable first end, a longitudinally        spaced apart second end having the air treatment chamber air        outlet and a longitudinally extending sidewall, wherein the air        treatment chamber air outlet comprises a longitudinally        extending porous member having a longitudinally extending porous        sidewall;    -   (c) a suction motor positioned in the air flow path upstream of        the clean air outlet;    -   (d) a moveable member positioned in the air treatment chamber,        the moveable member comprising at least one of the porous member        and a cleaning member positioned in the air treatment chamber        between the sidewall of the air treatment chamber and the porous        sidewall; and,    -   (e) a handle that is drivingly connected to the moveable member        by a driving linkage and part of the driving linkage extends        through the opening in the second end whereby the moveable        member is longitudinally translatable through at least a portion        of the chamber.

In some embodiments, the moveable member may be moveable from anoperating position in which the moveable member is positioned towardsthe second end and a cleaned position in which the moveable member istranslated longitudinally away from the second end.

In some embodiments, in the cleaned position, at least a portion of themoveable member may be exterior of the air treatment chamber.

In some embodiments, the moveable member may comprise the cleaningmember and the cleaning member may be moveable from an operatingposition in which the cleaning member abuts the second end and a cleanedposition in which the moveable member is translated longitudinally awayfrom the second end.

In some embodiments, the cleaning member may comprise an annular member.

In some embodiments, the air treatment member may comprise a cyclonehaving a centrally positioned cyclone axis of rotation.

In some embodiments, the porous member may be tapered towards theopenable first end.

In some embodiments, the surface cleaning apparatus may further comprisea dirt collection chamber external to the air treatment member chamberand the air treatment member chamber may have a dirt outlet incommunication with the dirt collection chamber.

In some embodiments, the first end may be openable in response to themoveable member being longitudinally translatable through the chamber.

In some embodiments, the surface cleaning apparatus may further comprisean openable lock operable between a locked position in which the firstend is secured in a closed position and an open position in which thefirst end is moveable to an open position and the lock may be moveablefrom the locked position to the open position in response to themoveable member being longitudinally translatable through the chamber.

In some embodiments, the driving linkage may operably engage the lock tomove the lock from the locked position to the open position as themoveable member is longitudinally translated through the chamber.

In some embodiments, the driving linkage may comprise a longitudinallyextending drive rod.

In some embodiments, the driving linkage may operably engage the firstend to open the first end as the moveable member is longitudinallytranslated through the chamber.

In some embodiments, the moveable member may operably engage the lock tomove the lock from the locked position to the open position as themoveable member is longitudinally translated through the chamber.

In some embodiments, the driving linkage may have a portion that travelslongitudinally through the opening, wherein a sealing member isassociated with the opening. The sealing member may comprises adeformable member provided in or adjacent the opening.

In accordance with another broad aspect of this disclosure, which may beused by itself or any other aspect set out herein, a moveable member(e.g., a cleaning member or a porous air outlet member) is positioned inan air treatment chamber, and a driving assembly, comprising a handleand a driving linkage, is drivingly connected to the moveable member.The driving assembly is reconfigurable between a stored position, and anoperable position. In the operating position, the driving assembly isoperable to longitudinally translate the moveable member through atleast a portion of the air treatment member. When not in use, thedriving assembly, e.g., the handle, may be moved to the stored positionin which a portion of the driving assembly, e.g., the handle, ispositioned to avoid being hit by a user or furniture during use of thesurface cleaning apparatus. Therefore, this reduces the likelihood ofthe driving assembly being damaged when the surface cleaning apparatusis used to clean a surface.

In accordance with this broad aspect, there is provided a surfacecleaning apparatus comprising:

-   -   (a) an air flow path extending from a dirty air inlet to a clean        air outlet;    -   (b) an air treatment member having an air treatment chamber        positioned in the air flow path, the air treatment chamber        comprising an air treatment chamber air inlet, an air treatment        chamber air outlet, an openable first end, a longitudinally        spaced apart second end having the air treatment chamber air        outlet and a longitudinally extending sidewall, wherein the air        treatment chamber air outlet comprises a longitudinally        extending porous member having a longitudinally extending porous        sidewall;    -   (c) a suction motor positioned in the air flow path upstream of        the clean air outlet;    -   (d) a moveable member positioned in the air treatment chamber,        the moveable member comprising at least one of the porous member        and a cleaning member positioned in the air treatment chamber        between the sidewall of the air treatment chamber and the porous        sidewall; and,    -   (e) a driving assembly comprising a handle and a driving linkage        wherein the driving assembly is reconfigurable between a stored        position and an operable position in which the driving assembly        is operable to longitudinally translate the moveable member        through at least a portion of the chamber.

In some embodiments, the driving linkage may comprise an extendablemember wherein, in the stored position, the extendable member is in acontracted configuration and, in the operable position, the extendablemember is in an extended configuration in which the handle is operableto longitudinally translate the moveable member through at least aportion of the chamber.

In some embodiments, driving linkage may be drivingly connected to themoveable member when the extendable member is in the contractedconfiguration.

In some embodiments, the extendable member may comprise a telescopingdrive rod.

In some embodiments, the extendable member may comprise a rotatablymounted drive rod, the rotatably mounted drive rod has a longitudinalaxis and the rotatably mounted drive rod may be rotatably mounted aboutan axis that extends in a plane that is transverse to the longitudinalaxis of the drive rod.

In some embodiments, the driving linkage may comprise a longitudinallytranslatable drive rod and the rotatably mounted drive rod may berotatably mounted to the longitudinally translatable drive rod.

In some embodiments, a portion of the driving linkage may be exterior tothe air treatment chamber and in the stored position, the portion of thedriving linkage may be recessed against a portion of the surfacecleaning apparatus.

In some embodiments, in the stored position, the portion of the drivinglinkage may be coextensive with a portion of the air treatment member.

In some embodiments, the extendable member may be exterior to the airtreatment chamber and in the contracted configuration, the extendablemember may be recessed against a portion of the surface cleaningapparatus.

In some embodiments, in the contracted configuration, the extendablemember may be coextensive with a portion of the air treatment member.

In some embodiments, the extendable member may have the handle and, inthe extended configuration, the handle may be longitudinally spaced fromthe first and second ends of the air treatment chamber.

In some embodiments, the handle may be rotatably mounted and in thestored position, the handle may be recessed against a portion of thesurface cleaning apparatus and in the operable position the may be ispositioned away from the portion of the surface cleaning apparatus.

In some embodiments, in the stored position, the handle may abut theportion of the surface cleaning apparatus.

In some embodiments, the driving linkage may comprise a longitudinallyextending drive rod having a drive rod axis and the handle may berotatable about the drive rod axis.

In some embodiments, the surface cleaning apparatus may further comprisea stop member operably engageable with the driving assembly to inhibitthe driving assembly moving to the operable position.

In some embodiments, the moveable member may be moveable from anoperating position in which the moveable member is positioned towardsthe second end and a cleaned position in which the moveable member istranslated longitudinally away from the second end.

In some embodiments, in the cleaned position, at least a portion of themoveable member may be exterior of the air treatment chamber.

In some embodiments, the moveable member may comprise the cleaningmember and the cleaning member may be moveable from an operatingposition in which the cleaning member abuts the second end and a cleanedposition in which the moveable member is translated longitudinally awayfrom the second end.

In some embodiments, the cleaning member may comprise an annular member.

In some embodiments, the air treatment member may comprise a cyclonehaving a centrally positioned cyclone axis of rotation.

In accordance with another broad aspect of this disclosure, which may beused by itself or any other aspect set out herein, a moveable member(e.g., a cleaning member or a porous air outlet member) is positioned inan air treatment chamber, and a driving assembly comprising a handle anda driving linkage is connected to the moveable member. The drivingassembly is operable between a stored position, in which the surfacecleaning apparatus is operable to clean a surface, and a cleanedposition, in which the moveable member has been translated through atleast a portion of the chamber. In the stored position, a portion of thedriving assembly comprising the handle is longitudinally spaced from thefirst and second ends of the air treatment chamber and is locatedadjacent another portion of the surface cleaning apparatus, such as adirt chamber or motor housing. This reduces the likelihood of thedriving assembly being damaged when the surface cleaning apparatus isused to clean a surface.

In accordance with this broad aspect, there is provided a surfacecleaning apparatus comprising:

-   -   (a) an air flow path extending from a dirty air inlet to a clean        air outlet;    -   (b) a first air treatment member having an air treatment chamber        positioned in the air flow path, the air treatment chamber        comprising an air treatment chamber air inlet, an air treatment        chamber air outlet, an openable first end, a longitudinally        spaced apart second end having the air treatment chamber air        outlet and a longitudinally extending sidewall, wherein the air        treatment chamber air outlet comprises a longitudinally        extending porous member having a longitudinally extending porous        sidewall;    -   (c) a suction motor positioned in the air flow path upstream of        the clean air outlet;    -   (d) a moveable member positioned in the air treatment chamber,        the moveable member comprising at least one of the porous member        and a cleaning member positioned in the air treatment chamber        between the sidewall of the air treatment chamber and the porous        sidewall; and,    -   (e) a driving assembly comprising a handle and a driving linkage        wherein the driving assembly is operable between a stored        position in which the surface cleaning apparatus is operable to        clean a surface and a cleaned position in which the moveable        member has been translated through at least a portion of the        chamber, wherein, in the stored position, a portion of the        driving assembly comprising the handle is longitudinally spaced        from the first and second ends of the air treatment chamber.

In some embodiments, the driving linkage may comprise a drive rod and,in the stored position, at least a portion of the drive rod may extendalong another portion of the surface cleaning apparatus.

In some embodiments, the surface cleaning apparatus may further comprisea dirt collection chamber exterior to the air treatment chamber, the airtreatment chamber may further comprise a dirt outlet in communicationwith the portion of the drive rod that is coextensive with a portion ofthe dirt collection chamber that is longitudinally spaced from the firstand second ends of the air treatment chamber.

In some embodiments, the surface cleaning apparatus may further comprisea second stage air treatment member downstream from the first airtreatment member and another portion of the surface cleaning apparatusmay comprise the second stage air treatment member.

In some embodiments, the first air treatment member may be a firstcyclonic stage and the surface cleaning apparatus may further comprise asecond cyclonic stage downstream from the first cyclonic stage and theanother portion of the surface cleaning apparatus may comprise thesecond cyclonic stage.

In some embodiments, the surface cleaning apparatus may further comprisea suction motor housing and another portion of the surface cleaningapparatus may comprise the suction motor housing.

In some embodiments, the driving linkage may have a fixed longitudinallength.

In some embodiments, the driving assembly may be reconfigurable betweenthe stored position in which the handle is recessed against a portion ofthe surface cleaning apparatus and an operable position in which thehandle has been rotated away from the portion of the surface cleaningapparatus and the driving assembly is operable to longitudinallytranslate the moveable member through at least a portion of the chamber.

In some embodiments, the stored position, the handle may abut theportion of the surface cleaning apparatus.

In some embodiments, the driving linkage may comprise a longitudinallyextending drive rod having a drive rod axis and the handle is rotatableabout the drive rod axis.

In some embodiments, the surface cleaning apparatus may further comprisea stop member operably engageable with the driving assembly to inhibitthe handle rotating away from the stored position.

In some embodiments, the driving linkage may comprise an extendablemember wherein, in the stored position, the extendable member is in acontracted configuration and, in the operable position, the extendablemember is in an extended configuration in which the handle is operableto longitudinally translate the moveable member through at least aportion of the chamber.

In some embodiments, the driving linkage may be drivingly connected tothe moveable member when the extendable member is in the contractedconfiguration.

In some embodiments, the extendable member may comprise a telescopingdrive rod.

In some embodiments, the moveable member may be moveable from anoperating position in which the moveable member is positioned towardsthe second end and a cleaned position in which the moveable member istranslated longitudinally away from the second end.

In some embodiments, in the cleaned position, at least a portion of themoveable member may be exterior of the air treatment chamber.

In some embodiments, the moveable member may comprise the cleaningmember and the cleaning member may be moveable from an operatingposition in which the cleaning member abuts the second end and a cleanedposition in which the moveable member is translated longitudinally awayfrom the second end.

In some embodiments, the cleaning member may comprise an annular member.

In some embodiments, the air treatment member may comprise a cyclonehaving a centrally positioned cyclone axis of rotation.

In accordance with another broad aspect of this disclosure, which may beused by itself or any other aspect set out herein, a moveable member(e.g., a cleaning member or a porous air outlet member) is positioned inan air treatment chamber, and a handle is drivingly connected to themoveable member. The moveable member is longitudinally translatablethrough at least a portion of the chamber and the first end of the airtreatment member is openable in response to the moveable member beinglongitudinally translatable through at least the portion of the chamber.Accordingly, the air treatment member may be automatically opened when,e.g., a cleaning member, is used to clean an outlet screen of the airtreatment chamber.

In accordance with this broad aspect, there is provided a surfacecleaning apparatus comprising:

-   -   (a) an air flow path extending from a dirty air inlet to a clean        air outlet;    -   (b) an air treatment member having an air treatment chamber        positioned in the air flow path, the air treatment chamber        comprising an air treatment chamber air inlet, an air treatment        chamber air outlet, an openable first end, a longitudinally        spaced apart second end having the air treatment chamber air        outlet and a longitudinally extending sidewall, wherein the air        treatment chamber air outlet comprises a longitudinally        extending porous member having a longitudinally extending porous        sidewall;    -   (c) a suction motor positioned in the air flow path upstream of        the clean air outlet;    -   (d) a moveable member positioned in the air treatment chamber,        the moveable member comprising at least one of the porous member        and a cleaning member positioned in the air treatment chamber        between the sidewall of the air treatment chamber and the porous        sidewall, wherein the moveable member is moveable from an        operating position in which the moveable member is positioned        towards the second end and a cleaned position in which the        moveable member is translated longitudinally away from the        second end; and,    -   (e) a handle drivingly connected to the moveable member whereby        the moveable member is longitudinally translatable through at        least a portion of the chamber, wherein the first end is        openable in response to the moveable member being longitudinally        translatable through at least the portion of the chamber.

In some embodiments, the surface cleaning apparatus may further comprisean openable lock operable between a locked position in which the firstend is secured in a closed position and an open position in which thefirst end is moveable to an open position, and the lock may be moveablefrom the locked position to the open position in response to themoveable member being longitudinally translatable through at least theportion of the chamber.

In some embodiments, the driving linkage may operably engage the lock tomove the lock from the locked position to the open position as themoveable member is longitudinally translated through at least theportion of the chamber.

In some embodiments, the driving linkage may comprise a longitudinallyextending drive rod.

In some embodiments, the driving linkage may operably engage the firstend to open the first end as the moveable member is longitudinallytranslated through the chamber.

In some embodiments, the driving linkage may operably engage the firstend to open the first end as the moveable member is longitudinallytranslated through at least the portion of the chamber.

In some embodiments, the moveable member may comprise the cleaningmember and the cleaning member may operably engage the first end to openthe first end as the cleaning member is longitudinally translatedthrough at least the portion of the chamber.

In some embodiments, the moveable member may comprise the porous memberand the porous member may operably engage the first end to open thefirst end as the porous member is longitudinally translated through atleast the portion of the chamber.

In some embodiments, the moveable member may comprise the cleaningmember and the cleaning member may operably engage the lock to move thelock from the locked position to the open position as the cleaningmember is longitudinally translated through at least the portion of thechamber.

In some embodiments, the cleaning member may operably engage the firstend to open the first end as the cleaning member is longitudinallytranslated through at least the portion of the chamber.

In some embodiments, the moveable member may comprise the porous memberand the porous member may operably engage the lock to move the lock fromthe locked position to the open position as the porous member islongitudinally translated through at least the portion of the chamber.

In some embodiments, the porous member may operably engage the first endto open the first end as the porous member is longitudinally translatedthrough at least the portion of the chamber.

In some embodiments, in the cleaned position, at least a portion of themoveable member may be exterior of the air treatment chamber.

In some embodiments, the moveable member may comprise the cleaningmember and the cleaning member may be moveable from an operatingposition in which the cleaning member abuts the second end and a cleanedposition in which the moveable member is translated longitudinally awayfrom the second end.

In some embodiments, the cleaning member may comprise an annular member.Optionally the annular member may have a plurality of finger membersdepending longitudinally therefrom. Optionally, the finger members maydepend from a radially outward portion of the annular member.

In some embodiments, the air treatment member may comprise a cyclonehaving a centrally positioned cyclone axis of rotation.

In some embodiments, the porous member may be tapered towards theopenable first end.

It will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that an apparatusor method disclosed herein may embody any one or more of the featurescontained herein and that the features may be used in any particularcombination or sub-combination.

These and other aspects and features of various embodiments will bedescribed in greater detail below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a better understanding of the described embodiments and to show moreclearly how they may be carried into effect, reference will now be made,by way of example, to the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a surface cleaning apparatus inaccordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 2-2 in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a surface cleaning apparatus inaccordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 4-4 in FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an air treatment member in an openposition, in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 6-6 in FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 6-6 in FIG. 5, inaccordance with another embodiment;

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 6-6 in FIG. 5, inaccordance with another embodiment;

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 6-6 in FIG. 5, inaccordance with another embodiment;

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of an air treatment member, in aclosed position, in accordance with another embodiment;

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the air treatment member of FIG.10, in an open position;

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the air treatment member of FIG.10, in an open position, with a cyclone outlet passage removed inaccordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the air treatment member of FIG.10, in an open position, with the cyclone outlet passage translated inaccordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of an air treatment member in an openposition, in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of an air treatment member in an openposition and with the cyclone outlet passage rotated out of a cyclonechamber, in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of an air treatment member in an openposition with the cyclone outlet passage rotated out of the cyclonechamber and an open end door in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the air treatment member of FIG. 16with a closed sidewall and an open end door in accordance with anembodiment;

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of an air treatment member in an openposition with an open end door in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of an air treatment member with a sidewallportion opened slightly;

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the air treatment member of FIG. 19with the sidewall portion opened fully;

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the air treatment member of FIG. 19with the sidewall portion opened fully and an axially extending memberrotated;

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of an air treatment member in an openposition in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 23 is a perspective view of an air treatment member in an openposition and with an open end door in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of the air treatment member of FIG. 22 inthe open position and with open end doors;

FIG. 25 is a perspective view of an air treatment member in an openposition in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 26 is a perspective view of the air treatment member of FIG. 25 inthe open position with the cyclone outlet passage rotated out of thecyclone chamber;

FIGS. 27-30 are perspective views of the air treatment membertransitioning from a closed position in FIG. 27 to an open position inFIG. 30, in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 31 is a perspective view of an air treatment member with an axiallytranslatable sidewall portion, in an open position, in accordance withan embodiment;

FIG. 32 is a perspective view of the air treatment member of FIG. 31with the sidewall portion in a closed position and an open end wall;

FIG. 33 is a perspective view of the air treatment member of FIG. 31 inan open position with the cyclone outlet passage rotated out of thecyclone chamber in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 34 is a perspective view of an air treatment member in an openposition in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 35 is a perspective view of an air treatment member in accordancewith an embodiment;

FIG. 36 is a cross-sectional view of the air treatment member of FIG. 35taken along the section line 36-36′ in FIG. 35;

FIG. 37 is a cross-sectional view of the air treatment member of FIG. 35taken along the section line 37-37′ in FIG. 35, in accordance with someembodiments;

FIG. 38 is a cross-sectional view of the air treatment member of FIG. 35along the section line 36-36′, in accordance with another embodiment;

FIG. 39 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the air treatmentmember of FIG. 35 taken along section line 37-37′ in FIG. 35, inaccordance with the embodiment of FIG. 38;

FIG. 40 is a perspective view of the air treatment member of FIG. 38with an open end wall, in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 41 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the air treatmentmember of FIG. 40 taken along the section line 41-41′ in FIG. 40;

FIG. 42 is a cross-sectional view of the air treatment member of FIG. 39taken along the section line 42-42′, according to some embodiments;

FIG. 43 is a sectional perspective of view of the air treatment memberof FIG. 35 taken along the section line 43-43′ of FIG. 35;

FIGS. 44A-44H are cross-sectional views of the air treatment member ofFIG. 39 taken along the section line 42-42′ in FIG. 39, according tovarious different embodiments;

FIG. 45 is a cross-sectional view of the air treatment member of FIG. 35taken along the section line 36-36′ in FIG. 35, in accordance withanother embodiment;

FIG. 46 is a cross-sectional view of the air treatment member of FIG. 35taken along the section line 36-36′ in FIG. 35, in accordance withanother embodiment;

FIG. 47 is a cross-sectional view of the air treatment member of FIG. 35taken along the section line 36-36′ in FIG. 35, in accordance withanother embodiment;

FIG. 48 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the air treatmentmember of FIG. 37 taken along the section line 36-36′ in FIG. 35 showingan opened end wall;

FIG. 49 is a cross-sectional view of the air treatment member of FIG. 35taken along the section line 37-37′ in FIG. 35, in accordance with anembodiment;

FIG. 50 is a cross-sectional view of the air treatment member of FIG. 35taken along the section line 37-37′ in FIG. 35, in accordance withanother embodiment;

FIG. 51 is a cross-sectional view of the air treatment member of FIG. 35taken along the section line 36-36′ in FIG. 35, in accordance with anembodiment;

FIGS. 52-57 are cross-sectional views of the air treatment member ofFIG. 51 taken along the section line 52-52′ in FIG. 51, in accordancewith various different embodiments;

FIG. 58 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the air treatmentmember of FIG. 35 taken along the section line 36-36′ in FIG. 35, inaccordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 59 is a cross-sectional view of the air treatment member of FIG. 49taken along the section line 59-59′;

FIG. 60 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the air treatmentmember of FIG. 35 taken along the section line 37-37′ in FIG. 35,according to some embodiments;

FIG. 61 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the air treatmentmember of FIG. 35 taken along the section line 37-37′ in FIG. 35,according to some embodiments;

FIG. 62 is a cross-sectional view of the air treatment member of FIG. 35taken along the section line 37-37′ in FIG. 35, according to someembodiments;

FIG. 63 is a cross-sectional view of the air treatment member of FIG. 35taken along the sectional line 36-36′ in FIG. 35 showing an opened endwall, in accordance with some embodiments;

FIGS. 64-67 are perspective views of vertical screens, according tovarious different embodiments;

FIG. 68A is a perspective view of a vertical screen, according toanother embodiment;

FIG. 68B is a top-down view of the vertical screen of FIG. 68A;

FIG. 68C is a side-view of the vertical screen of FIG. 68A;

FIG. 69A is a perspective view of a vertical screen, according toanother embodiment;

FIG. 69B is a top-down view of the vertical screen of FIG. 69A;

FIG. 69C is a side-view of the vertical screen of FIG. 69A;

FIG. 70A is a perspective view of a vertical screen, according toanother embodiment;

FIG. 70B is a top-down view of the vertical screen of FIG. 70A;

FIG. 70C is a side-view of the vertical screen of FIG. 70A;

FIG. 71A is a perspective view of a vertical screen, according toanother embodiment;

FIG. 71B is a top-down view of the vertical screen of FIG. 71A;

FIG. 71C is a side-view of the vertical screen of FIG. 71A;

FIG. 72A is a perspective view of vertical screens, according to anotherembodiment;

FIG. 72B is a top-down view of the vertical screens of FIG. 72A;

FIG. 72C is a side-view of the vertical screens of FIG. 72A;

FIG. 73A is a perspective view of vertical screens, according to anotherembodiment;

FIG. 73B is a top-down view of the vertical screens of FIG. 73B;

FIG. 73C is a side-view of the vertical screens of FIG. 73C;

FIG. 74A is a perspective view of a vertical screen, according toanother embodiment;

FIG. 74B is a top-down view of the vertical screen of FIG. 74A;

FIG. 74C is a side-view of the vertical screen of FIG. 74A;

FIG. 75A is a perspective view of vertical screens, according to anotherembodiment;

FIG. 75B is a top-down view of the vertical screens of FIG. 75A;

FIG. 75C is a side-view of the vertical screens of FIG. 75A;

FIG. 76A is a perspective view of a vertical screen, according toanother embodiment;

FIG. 76B is a top-down view of the vertical screen of FIG. 76A;

FIG. 76C is a side-view of the vertical screen of FIG. 76A;

FIG. 77A is a perspective view of a vertical screen, according toanother embodiment;

FIG. 77B is a top-down view of the vertical screen of FIG. 77A;

FIG. 77C is a side-view of the vertical screen of FIG. 77A;

FIG. 78A is a perspective view of a vertical screen, according toanother embodiment;

FIG. 78B is a top-down view of the vertical screen of FIG. 78A;

FIG. 78C is a side-view of the vertical screen of FIG. 78A;

FIG. 79 is a cross-sectional view of the air treatment member of FIG. 35taken along the section line 79-79′ in FIG. 35, in accordance with someembodiments;

FIG. 80 is the cross-sectional view of the air treatment member of FIG.79 with an opened end wall;

FIG. 81 is the cross-sectional view of the air treatment member of FIG.79, in accordance with some other embodiments;

FIG. 82 is the cross-sectional view of the air treatment member of FIG.81 with an opened end wall;

FIG. 83 is the cross-sectional view of the air treatment member of FIG.79, in accordance with another embodiment;

FIG. 84 is a perspective view of a surface cleaning apparatus inaccordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 85A is a perspective cross-sectional view of an air treatmentmember of the surface cleaning apparatus of FIG. 84 taken alongsectional line 85-85′ of FIG. 84 showing a cleaning member in a storageconfiguration;

FIG. 85B is a perspective cross-sectional view of the air treatmentmember of FIG. 85A showing the cleaning member in an in-useconfiguration;

FIG. 86 is a cross-sectional view of the air treatment member of FIG.85A taken along the section line 86-86′ in FIG. 85, according to someembodiments;

FIGS. 87A-87E are perspective cross-sectional views of the air treatmentmember of FIG. 84 taken along the section line 85-85′ in FIG. 84,showing a cleaning member and handle assembly transitioning from astorage configuration to an in-use or emptying configuration, and thenback to a storage configuration, in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 88 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the air treatmentmember of FIG. 84 taken along the section line 85-85′ showing thecleaning member and handle assembly in an in-use configuration, inaccordance with some embodiments;

FIGS. 89A-89C are perspective cross-sectional views of the air treatmentmember of FIG. 84 taken along the section line 85-85′ in FIG. 84 inaccordance with another embodiment, showing the cleaning member andhandle assembly transitioning from a storage configuration to anemptying configuration;

FIG. 90A is a perspective cross-sectional view of the air treatmentmember of FIG. 84 taken along the section line 85-85′ in FIG. 84 showinga multi-inlet cyclone, in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 90B is a side perspective view of a cleaning member, in accordancewith some embodiments;

FIG. 90C is a bottom-side perspective view of the cleaning member ofFIG. 90B;

FIG. 91 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the air treatmentmember of FIG. 90A showing the cleaning member in a cleaningconfiguration;

FIG. 92A is a perspective view of an air treatment member, in accordancewith an embodiment;

FIG. 92B is a perspective view of the air treatment member of FIG. 92Ashowing a perspective cross-sectional view of a track for a handleassembly which is taken along section line 92B-92B′ of FIG. 92A;

FIG. 92C is a perspective cross-sectional view of the air treatmentmember of FIG. 92A, taken along the section line 92C-92C′ of FIG. 92B,showing the cleaning member and handle assembly in a storageconfiguration;

FIG. 93A is a perspective view of the air treatment member of FIG. 92Ashowing an opened end wall;

FIG. 93B is a perspective view of the air treatment member of FIG. 93showing a perspective cross-sectional view of the track for the handleassembly taken along the section line 93B-93B′ of FIG. 93A;

FIG. 93C is a perspective cross-sectional view of the air treatmentmember of FIG. 93A, taken along the section line 93C-93C′ of FIG. 93B,showing an opened end wall;

FIG. 94A is the perspective cross-sectional view of the air treatmentmember of FIG. 92C, showing a handle of the handle assembly in a storageposition;

FIG. 94B is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the airtreatment member of FIG. 94A, showing the handle in the storage positon;

FIG. 95A is the perspective cross-sectional view of the air treatmentmember of FIG. 92C, showing a handle of the handle assembly in an in-useposition;

FIG. 95B is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the airtreatment member of FIG. 95B, showing the handle in the in-use positon;

FIG. 96 is a perspective view of an external dirt chamber of an airtreatment member, according to some embodiments;

FIG. 97 is a perspective view of the external dirt chamber of the airtreatment member of FIG. 96, showing a partially opened end wall;

FIG. 98 is a perspective view of the external dirt chamber of the airtreatment member of FIG. 96, showing an opened end wall;

FIG. 99 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the external dirtchamber of the air treatment member of FIG. 96 taken along section line99-99′ of FIG. 96, in accordance with some other embodiments;

FIG. 100 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the external dirtchamber of FIG. 99, showing a partially opened end wall;

FIG. 101 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the external dirtchamber of FIG. 99, showing an opened end wall;

FIG. 102A is a perspective cross-sectional view of the air treatmentmember of FIG. 84, taken along the section line 85-85′ of FIG. 84,showing the cleaning member in a storage position, in accordance withsome embodiments;

FIG. 102B is a perspective cross-sectional view of the air treatmentmember of FIG. 84, taken along the section line 85-85′ of FIG. 84,showing the cleaning member in a cleaned position, in accordance withsome embodiments;

FIG. 102C is a cross-sectional view of the air treatment member of FIG.102A, taken along the section line 102C-102C′ of FIG. 102A;

FIGS. 103A-103E are enlarged cross-sectional views of a telescopingelongate rod, used in a driving assembly in an air treatment member,taken along section line 85-85′ of FIG. 84, showing the elongate rodextended from a retracted storage position to an extended use position;

FIG. 104A is a perspective view of an air treatment member with adriving assembly extending through a first cyclone end;

FIG. 104B is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the airtreatment member of FIG. 104A;

FIG. 105 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the air treatmentmember of FIG. 104A, taken along the section line 105-105′ of FIG. 104A;

FIGS. 106A-106E are perspective cross-sectional views of the airtreatment member of FIG. 104A, taken along the section line 105-105′ ofFIG. 104A, showing the cleaning member translated from a storageposition to various cleaned positions;

FIG. 107A is an enlarged perspective cross-sectional view of a portionof the air treatment member of FIG. 104A, taken along the section line105-105′ of FIG. 104A, showing a door locking mechanism in a lockedconfiguration;

FIG. 107B is an enlarged perspective cross-sectional view of a portionof the air treatment member of FIG. 104A, taken along the section line105-105′ of FIG. 104A, showing the door locking mechanism is an unlockedconfiguration;

FIGS. 108A-108C are perspective cross-sectional views of the airtreatment member of FIG. 104A, taken along the section line 105-105′ ofFIG. 104A, showing the cleaning member and shroud translated from astorage position to various cleaned positions;

FIG. 109A is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the airtreatment member of FIG. 104A, wherein the driving assembly is in aretracted storage position;

FIG. 109B is a perspective view of the air treatment member of FIG.109A, showing the driving assembly in an extended use position;

FIG. 110A is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the airtreatment member of FIG. 104A, wherein the driving assembly is in aretracted storage position;

FIG. 110B is a perspective view of the air treatment member of FIG.110A, showing the driving assembly in an extended use position;

FIG. 111A is a perspective view of an air treatment member having adriving assembly extending through a second cyclone end;

FIG. 111B is a perspective cross-sectional view of the air treatmentmember of FIG. 111A, taken along the section line 111B-111B′ of FIG.111A;

FIG. 111C is a bottom-up, inverted perspective view of the air treatmentmember of FIG. 111A;

FIGS. 112A-112F are perspective cross-sectional views of the airtreatment member of FIG. 111A, taken along the section line 111B-111B′of FIG. 111A, showing the cleaning member translated to various cleanedpositions;

FIGS. 113A-113C are perspective cross-sectional views of the airtreatment member of FIG. 111A, taken along the section line 111B-111B′of FIG. 111A, showing the cleaning member and shroud translated tovarious cleaned positions;

FIG. 114 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a surfacecleaning apparatus;

FIG. 115 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the surface cleaningapparatus of FIG. 114, taken along the section line 115-115′ of FIG.114;

FIG. 116A is a partial perspective view of the surface cleaningapparatus of FIG. 114, showing an air treatment member mounted to anupright section of the surface cleaning apparatus;

FIG. 116B is a perspective cross-sectional view of FIG. 116A, takenalong the section line 116B-116B′ of FIG. 116A;

FIG. 116C is a perspective cross-sectional view of FIG. 116A, takenalong the section line 116C-116C′ of FIG. 116B;

FIG. 117A is a perspective cross-sectional view, taken along sectionline 116B-116B′ of FIG. 116A, showing the air treatment member of FIG.116A being dismounted from the surface cleaning apparatus;

FIG. 1176 is a perspective view of the air treatment member of FIG.116A, showing the air treatment member dismounted from the surfacecleaning apparatus;

FIG. 117C is a perspective view of the air treatment member of FIG. 116Awhen dismounted from the surface cleaning apparatus;

FIG. 118A is a perspective view of an alternate air treatment member;

FIG. 118B is a perspective cross-sectional view of the air treatmentmember of FIG. 118A, taken along the section line 118B-118B′ of FIG.118A;

FIG. 118C a perspective cross-sectional view of the air treatment memberof FIG. 118A, taken along the section line 118C-118C′ of FIG. 118A;

FIG. 118D a cross-sectional view of the air treatment member of FIG.118A, taken along the section line 118D-118D′ of FIG. 118A;

FIGS. 119A-119F are cross-sectional views of various embodiments of theair treatment member of FIG. 118A, taken along the section line 119-119′of FIG. 118A;

FIG. 120A is a perspective view of the air treatment member of FIG.118A, showing the air treatment member mounted to an upright section ofthe surface cleaning apparatus of FIG. 114;

FIG. 120B is a perspective cross-sectional view, taken along the sectionline 120B-120B′ of FIG. 120A;

FIG. 120C is a perspective cross-sectional view taken along the sectionline 120C-120C′ of FIG. 120A, showing the air treatment member beingdismounted from the upright section of the surface cleaning apparatus ofFIG. 114;

FIGS. 121A-121C are cross-sectional views of an embodiment of the airtreatment member of FIG. 117C, taken along the section line 121A-121A′of FIG. 117C, showing the cleaning member translated to various cleanedpositions;

FIG. 122A is an enlarged view of a portion of the cross-sectional viewof FIG. 121A showing a door locking mechanism in a locked position;

FIG. 122B is an enlarged view of a portion of the cross-sectional viewof FIG. 121B showing the door locking mechanism in an unlocked position;

FIG. 123A is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of an airtreatment member;

FIG. 123B is a perspective cross-sectional view of the air treatmentmember of FIG. 123A, taken along the section line 123B-123B′ of FIG.123A showing a door locking mechanism in a locked position;

FIG. 123C is a perspective cross-sectional view of the air treatmentmember of FIG. 123A, taken along the section line 123B-123B′ of FIG.123A showing the door locking mechanism in an unlocked position;

FIG. 124A is a perspective view of an alternate air treatment member;

FIG. 124B is a perspective cross-sectional view of the air treatmentmember of FIG. 124A, taken along the section line 124B-124B′ of FIG.124A showing a door locking mechanism in a locked position;

FIG. 124C is a perspective cross-sectional view of the air treatmentmember of FIG. 124A, taken along the section line 124B-124B′ of FIG.124A showing the door locking mechanism in an unlocked position;

FIG. 125A is a perspective view of an alternate air treatment member;

FIG. 125B is a perspective cross-sectional view of the air treatmentmember of FIG. 125A, taken along the section line 125B-125B′ of FIG.125A showing the cleaning member in a storage position;

FIG. 125C is a perspective cross-sectional view of the air treatmentmember of FIG. 125A, taken along the section line 125B-125B′ of FIG.125A showing the cleaning member in a cleaned position;

FIGS. 126A-126D are perspective cross-sectional views of an embodimentof the air treatment member of FIG. 117C, taken along the section line121A-121A′ of FIG. 117C, showing the cleaning member translated from astorage position to various cleaned positions;

FIGS. 127A-127E are perspective cross-sectional views of an embodimentof the air treatment member of FIG. 117C, taken along the section line121A-121A′ of FIG. 117C, showing the cleaning member and shroudtranslated from a storage position to various cleaned positions;

FIG. 128 is an enlarged perspective cross-sectional view of a portion ofthe air treatment member of FIG. 117C, according to another embodiment,taken along the section line 121A-121A′ of FIG. 117C, showing thecleaning member and shroud in a storage position;

FIGS. 129A-129D are perspective cross-sectional views of the airtreatment member of FIG. 128, taken along the section line 121A-121A′ ofFIG. 117C, showing the cleaning member and shroud translated to variouscleaned positions;

FIG. 130 is an enlarged perspective cross-sectional view of a portion ofthe air treatment member of FIG. 117C, according to still anotherembodiment, taken along the section line 121A-121A′ of FIG. 117C,showing the cleaning member in a storage position;

FIGS. 131A-131D are perspective cross-sectional views of the airtreatment member of FIG. 130, taken along the section line 121A-121A′ ofFIG. 117C, showing the cleaning member translated to various cleanedpositions;

FIG. 132 is a perspective view of an alternate air treatment member;

FIG. 133A is a perspective cross-sectional view of the air treatmentmember of FIG. 132, taken along the section line 133A-133A′ of FIG. 132,showing the cleaning member in a storage position;

FIG. 133B is an enlarged perspective cross-sectional view of a portionof the air treatment member of FIG. 132, taken along the section line133A-133A′ of FIG. 132;

FIGS. 134A-134E are perspective cross-sectional views of the airtreatment member of FIG. 132, taken along the section line 133A-133A′ ofFIG. 132, showing the cleaning member translated to various cleanedpositions;

FIG. 135A is a perspective view of an alternate air treatment member;

FIG. 135B is a perspective cross-sectional view of the air treatmentmember of FIG. 135A, taken along the section line 135B-135B′ of FIG.135A, showing the cleaning member in a storage position;

FIGS. 136A-136E are perspective cross-sectional views of the airtreatment member of FIG. 135A, taken along the section line 135B-135B′of FIG. 135A, showing the cleaning member translated to various cleanedpositions;

FIG. 137A is a perspective view of an alternate air treatment member;

FIG. 137B is a side elevation view of the air treatment member of FIG.137A;

FIG. 137C is a perspective cross-sectional view of the air treatmentmember of FIG. 137A, taken along the section line 137C-137C′ of FIG.137A, showing the cleaning member in a storage position;

FIG. 138A is a side elevation view of the air treatment member of FIG.137A, showing the cleaning member translated to a cleaned position;

FIG. 138B is a perspective cross-sectional view of the air treatmentmember of FIG. 138A, taken along the section line 137C-137C′ of FIG.137A;

FIG. 139A is a side elevation view of the air treatment member of FIG.137A, showing the cleaning member translated further into a cleanedposition;

FIG. 139B is a perspective cross-sectional view of the air treatmentmember of FIG. 138A, taken along the section line 137C-137C′ of FIG.137A;

FIG. 140A is a perspective view of an alternate air treatment member;

FIG. 140B is a perspective cross-sectional view of the air treatmentmember of FIG. 140A, taken along the section line 140B-140B′ of FIG.140A, showing the cleaning member in a storage position;

FIGS. 141A-141E are perspective cross-sectional views of the airtreatment member of FIG. 140A, taken along the section line 140B-140B′of FIG. 140A, showing the cleaning member translated to various cleanedpositions;

FIG. 142A is a perspective view of an alternate air treatment member;

FIG. 142B is a perspective cross-sectional view of the air treatmentmember of FIG. 142A, taken along the section line 142B-142B′ of FIG.142A, showing the cleaning member in a storage position;

FIG. 142C is a side elevation view of the air treatment member of FIG.142A, showing the cleaning member translated into a cleaned position;

FIGS. 143A-143D show perspective cross-sectional views of the airtreatment member of FIG. 142A, taken along the section line 142B-142B′of FIG. 142A, showing the cleaning member translated to various cleanedpositions;

FIG. 144 is a perspective view of an alternate air treatment member;

FIG. 145A is a side elevation view of the air treatment member of FIG.144;

FIG. 145B is a perspective cross-sectional view of the air treatmentmember of FIG. 144, taken along the section line 145B-145B′ of FIG. 144,showing the cleaning member in a storage position;

FIG. 146A is a side elevation view of the air treatment member of FIG.144, showing the cleaning member translated into a cleaned position;

FIG. 146B is a perspective cross-sectional view of the air treatmentmember of FIG. 146A, taken along the section line 145B-145B′ of FIG.144;

FIG. 147A is a side elevation view of the air treatment member of FIG.144, showing the cleaning member translated further into a cleanedposition;

FIG. 147B is a perspective cross-sectional view of the air treatmentmember of FIG. 147A, taken along the section line 145B-145B′ of FIG.144;

FIG. 148A is a perspective view of an alternate air treatment member;

FIG. 148B is a perspective cross-sectional view of the air treatmentmember of FIG. 148A, taken along the section line 148B-148B′ of FIG.148A, showing the cleaning member in a storage position;

FIG. 148C is an enlarged view of a portion of the perspectivecross-sectional view of FIG. 148B;

FIGS. 149A-149E are perspective cross-sectional views of the airtreatment member of FIG. 148A, taken along the section line 148B-148B′of FIG. 148A, showing the cleaning member translated to various cleanedpositions;

FIG. 150 is a perspective view of an alternate air treatment member;

FIGS. 151A-151C are perspective cross-sectional views of the airtreatment member of FIG. 150, taken along the section line 151-151′ ofFIG. 150, showing the cleaning member translated from a storage positonto various cleaned positions;

FIG. 152 is a perspective view of an alternate air treatment member;

FIGS. 153A-153C are perspective cross-sectional views of the airtreatment member of FIG. 152, taken along the section line 153-153′ ofFIG. 152, showing the cleaning member translated from a storage positonto various cleaned positions;

FIG. 154A is a perspective view of an alternate air treatment member;

FIG. 154B is a perspective cross-sectional view of the air treatmentmember of FIG. 154A, taken along the section line 154B-154B′ of FIG.154A, showing the shroud in a storage position;

FIG. 154C is an enlarged view of a portion of the cross-sectional viewof FIG. 154B;

FIG. 155A is a perspective view of the air treatment member of FIG.154A, with the shroud translated into a cleaned position;

FIG. 155B is a perspective cross-sectional view of the air treatmentmember of FIG. 155A, taken along the section line 155B-155B′ of FIG.155A;

FIG. 156A is a perspective view of the air treatment member of FIG.154A, with the shroud translated further into a cleaned position;

FIG. 156B is a perspective cross-sectional view of the air treatmentmember of FIG. 155A, taken along the section line 156B-156B′ of FIG.156A;

FIG. 157A is a perspective view of an alternate air treatment member;

FIG. 157B is a perspective cross-sectional view of the air treatmentmember of FIG. 157A, taken along the section line 157B-157B′ of FIG.157A;

FIGS. 158A-158E are perspective cross-sectional views of the airtreatment member of FIG. 157A, taken along the section line 157B-157B′of FIG. 157A, showing the cleaning member translated from a storagepositon to various cleaned positions;

FIG. 159A is a perspective view of an alternate air treatment member;

FIG. 159B is a perspective cross-sectional view of the air treatmentmember of FIG. 159A, taken along the section line 159B-159B′ of FIG.159A;

FIGS. 160A-160E are perspective cross-sectional views of the airtreatment member of FIG. 159A, taken along the section line 159B-159B′of FIG. 159A, showing the cleaning member translated from a storagepositon to various cleaned positions;

FIG. 161A is a perspective view of an alternate air treatment member;

FIG. 161B is a perspective cross-sectional view of the air treatmentmember of FIG. 161A, taken along section line 161B-161B′ of FIG. 161A,showing the driving assembly in a retracted storage position;

FIG. 161C is a perspective cross-sectional view of the air treatmentmember of FIG. 161A, taken along section line 161B-161B′ of FIG. 161A,showing the driving assembly in an expanded or telescoped use position;

FIG. 161D is a perspective cross-sectional view of the air treatmentmember of FIG. 161A, taken along section line 161B-161B′ of FIG. 161A,showing the shroud translated into a cleaned position;

FIG. 162A is a perspective view of an air treatment member, according toan embodiment, showing the driving assembly in a storage position;

FIG. 162B is a perspective cross-sectional view of the air treatmentmember of FIG. 162A, taken along the section line 162B-162B′ of FIG.162A;

FIG. 163A is a perspective view of the air treatment member of FIG.162A, showing the driving assembly rotated into a use position;

FIG. 163B is a perspective cross-sectional view of the air treatmentmember of FIG. 162A, taken along the section line 162B-162B′ of FIG.162A, showing the shroud translated into a cleaned position;

FIG. 163C is a perspective cross-sectional view of the air treatmentmember of FIG. 162A, taken along the section line 162B-162B′ of FIG.162A, showing the shroud translated further into a cleaned position;

FIG. 163D is a perspective view of the air treatment member of FIG.163A, and showing the driving assembly rotated into a locked position;

FIG. 164A is a perspective view of an alternate air treatment member;

FIG. 164B is a perspective cross-sectional view of the air treatmentmember of FIG. 164A, taken along section line 164B-164B′ of FIG. 164A,showing the shroud in a storage position;

FIG. 164C is a perspective cross-sectional view of the air treatmentmember of FIG. 164A, taken along section line 164B-164B′ of FIG. 164A,showing the shroud in a cleaned position;

FIG. 165A is a perspective cross-sectional view of another embodiment ofthe air treatment member of FIG. 164A, taken along section line164B-164B′ of FIG. 164A, showing the shroud in a storage position;

FIG. 165B is a perspective cross-sectional view of the embodiment of theair treatment member shown in FIG. 165A, taken along section line164B-164B′ of FIG. 164A, showing the shroud in a cleaned position;

FIG. 166A is a perspective view of an alternate air treatment member;

FIG. 166B is a cross-sectional perspective view of the air treatmentmember of FIG. 166A, taken along the section line 166B-166B′ of FIG.166A, showing the shroud in a storage position; and,

FIG. 166C is a perspective view of the air treatment member of FIG.166A, and showing the shroud in a cleaned position.

DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

Numerous embodiments are described in this application, and arepresented for illustrative purposes only. The described embodiments arenot intended to be limiting in any sense. The invention is widelyapplicable to numerous embodiments, as is readily apparent from thedisclosure herein. Those skilled in the art will recognize that thepresent invention may be practiced with modification and alterationwithout departing from the teachings disclosed herein. Althoughparticular features of the present invention may be described withreference to one or more particular embodiments or figures, it should beunderstood that such features are not limited to usage in the one ormore particular embodiments or figures with reference to which they aredescribed.

The terms “an embodiment,” “embodiment,” “embodiments,” “theembodiment,” “the embodiments,” “one or more embodiments,” “someembodiments,” and “one embodiment” mean “one or more (but not all)embodiments of the present invention(s),” unless expressly specifiedotherwise.

The terms “including,” “comprising” and variations thereof mean“including but not limited to,” unless expressly specified otherwise. Alisting of items does not imply that any or all of the items aremutually exclusive, unless expressly specified otherwise. The terms “a,”“an” and “the” mean “one or more,” unless expressly specified otherwise.

As used herein and in the claims, two or more parts are said to be“coupled”, “connected”, “attached”, “joined”, “affixed”, or “fastened”where the parts are joined or operate together either directly orindirectly (i.e., through one or more intermediate parts), so long as alink occurs. As used herein and in the claims, two or more parts aresaid to be “directly coupled”, “directly connected”, “directlyattached”, “directly joined”, “directly affixed”, or “directly fastened”where the parts are connected in physical contact with each other. Asused herein, two or more parts are said to be “rigidly coupled”,“rigidly connected”, “rigidly attached”, “rigidly joined”, “rigidlyaffixed”, or “rigidly fastened” where the parts are coupled so as tomove as one while maintaining a constant orientation relative to eachother. None of the terms “coupled”, “connected”, “attached”, “joined”,“affixed”, and “fastened” distinguish the manner in which two or moreparts are joined together.

Further, although method steps may be described (in the disclosureand/or in the claims) in a sequential order, such methods may beconfigured to work in alternate orders. In other words, any sequence ororder of steps that may be described does not necessarily indicate arequirement that the steps be performed in that order. The steps ofmethods described herein may be performed in any order that ispractical. Further, some steps may be performed simultaneously.

As used herein and in the claims, two elements are said to be “parallel”where those elements are parallel and spaced apart, or where thoseelements are collinear.

Some elements herein may be identified by a part number, which iscomposed of a base number followed by an alphabetical orsubscript-numerical suffix (e.g. 112 a, or 112 ₁). Multiple elementsherein may be identified by part numbers that share a base number incommon and that differ by their suffixes (e.g. 112 ₁, 112 ₂, and 112 ₃).All elements with a common base number may be referred to collectivelyor generically using the base number without a suffix (e.g. 112).

General Description of a Hand Vacuum Cleaner

Referring to FIGS. 1-4, the following is a general discussion ofembodiments of an apparatus 100, which provides a basis forunderstanding several of the features that are discussed herein. Asdiscussed subsequently, each of the features may be used individually orin any particular combination or sub-combination in these or in otherembodiments disclosed herein.

Embodiments described herein include an improved cyclonic air treatmentmember 116, and a surface cleaning apparatus 100 including the same.Surface cleaning apparatus 100 may be any type of surface cleaningapparatus, including for example a hand vacuum cleaner as shown in FIG.1-2, a stick vacuum cleaner, an upright vacuum cleaner as shown in FIG.3-4, a canister vacuum cleaner, an extractor, or a wet/dry type vacuumcleaner.

In FIGS. 1-2, surface cleaning apparatus 100 is illustrated as a handvacuum cleaner, which may also be referred to also as a “handvac” or“hand-held vacuum cleaner”. As used herein, a hand vacuum cleaner is avacuum cleaner that can be operated to clean a surface generallyone-handedly. That is, the entire weight of the vacuum may be held bythe same one hand used to direct a dirty air inlet of the vacuum cleanerwith respect to a surface to be cleaned. For example, handle 104 anddirty air inlet 108 may be rigidly coupled to each other (directly orindirectly), such as being integrally formed or separately molded andthen non-removably secured together (e.g. adhesive or welding), so as tomove as one while maintaining a constant orientation relative to eachother. This is to be contrasted with canister and upright vacuumcleaners, whose weight is typically supported by a surface (e.g. afloor) during use. When a canister vacuum cleaner is operated, or whenan upright vacuum cleaner is operated in a ‘lift-away’ configuration, asecond hand is typically required to direct the dirty air inlet at theend of a flexible hose.

In the example of FIGS. 3-4, upright vacuum cleaner 100 is shownincluding an upright section 120. Handle 104 is connected to an upperend 124 of upright section 120, and a surface cleaning head 128 (alsoreferred to as a ‘floor cleaning head’) is movably (e.g. pivotally)connected to a lower end 132 of upright section 120. Upright section 120may be movable (e.g. pivotable) relative to surface cleaning head 128between a storage position (shown) and a rearwardly reclined floorcleaning position.

Referring to FIGS. 1-4, surface cleaning apparatus 100 includes an airtreatment member 116 (which may be permanently affixed to the main bodyor may be removable in part or in whole therefrom for emptying), a dirtyair inlet 108, a clean air outlet 112, and an air flow path 136extending between the dirty air inlet 108 and the clean air outlet 112.

Surface cleaning apparatus 100 has a front end 140, a rear end 144, anupper end (also referred to as the top) 148, and a lower end (alsoreferred to as the bottom) 152. In the embodiment of FIGS. 1-2, dirtyair inlet 108 is at a lower portion of apparatus front end 140 and cleanair outlet 112 is at a rearward portion of apparatus 100 proximateapparatus rear end 144.

It will be appreciated that dirty air inlet 108 and clean air outlet 112may be positioned in different locations of apparatus 100. For example,FIGS. 3-4 show an example in which dirty air inlet 108 is located at alower end 156 of surface cleaning head 128, and clean air outlet 112 islocated on apparatus front end 140.

Referring again to FIGS. 1-4, a suction motor 160 is provided togenerate vacuum suction through air flow path 136, and is positionedwithin a motor housing 164. Suction motor 160 may be a fan-motorassembly including an electric motor and impeller blade(s). In theillustrated embodiment, suction motor 160 is positioned in the air flowpath 136 downstream of air treatment member 116. In this configuration,suction motor 160 may be referred to as a “clean air motor”.Alternatively, suction motor 160 may be positioned upstream of airtreatment member 116, and referred to as a “dirty air motor”.

In the illustrated embodiments, apparatus 100 is shown having twocyclonic cleaning stages 1681 and 1682 arranged in series with eachother. It will be appreciated that air treatment member 116 may includea single cleaning stage (e.g., first cyclonic cleaning stage 1681 orsecond cyclonic cleaning stage 1682) or two or more cyclonic cleaningstages (e.g., both first and second cleaning stages 1681 and 1682). Eachcyclonic cleaning stage 168 may include one cyclone 170 as shown, ormany cyclones arranged in parallel with each other, and may include onedirt collection chamber 172 or many dirt collection chambers 172, of anysuitable configuration. For example, FIG. 2 exemplifies an embodimentwherein second cyclonic cleaning stage 1682 includes a cyclone chamber176 having a dirt outlet 178 to an external dirt collection chamber 172.Each cyclone 170 may have its own dirt collection chamber as shown.Alternatively or in addition, two or more cyclones 170 may share acommon dirt collection chamber. Alternately, as also exemplified in FIG.2, a cyclone 1681 may have a dirt collection region in a portion of thecyclone chamber (e.g., a lower end of a cyclone chamber or an end of thecyclone chamber distal to the air outlet end of the cyclone chamber).

Air treatment member 116 is configured to remove particles of dirt andother debris from the air flow. In the illustrated example, airtreatment member 116 includes a cyclone assembly (also referred to as a“cyclone bin assembly”) having at least a first cyclonic cleaning stage1681 with a cyclone 170 and a dirt collection chamber 172 (also referredto as a “dirt collection region”, “dirt collection bin”, “dirt bin”, or“dirt chamber”). Cyclone 170 has a cyclone chamber 176. As exemplified,dirt collection chamber 172 may be external to the cyclone chamber 176(i.e. dirt collection chamber 172 may have a discrete volume from thatof cyclone chamber 176), or dirt collection chamber 172 may be a dirtcollection region located partially or entirely within a volume ofcyclone chamber 176.

FIG. 118B exemplifies an embodiment of a dirt collection chamber 172located exterior to the volume of the cyclone chamber 176. In theexemplified embodiment, a deflector or arrestor plate 810 is positionedproximal one end of the cyclone chamber 176 (e.g., a second cyclone end244, opposite the cyclone end having the cyclone air inlet 204), and isspaced from the cyclone end 244. The dirt chamber 172 defines the areabetween the cyclone end 244, and the arrestor plate 810. In theexemplified embodiment, the dirt chamber is in communication with thecyclone chamber via a dirt outlet 178 that is formed as a slot in thecyclone sidewall 236. Other dirt outlets known in the art may be used.Optionally, as exemplified, the arrestor plate 810 can be supported,e.g., by a support member 812, that is mounted to an openable door 352(e.g., defined by the second cyclone end 244). As explained in furtherdetail herein, door 352 can be opened to empty the majority of loosedirt and debris contained in cyclone chamber 176 as well as in the dirtchamber 172. As exemplified, by supporting the arrestor plate 810 on thedoor 352, this can allow the arrestor plate 810 to open concurrentlywith the openable door 352. Alternatively, in other embodiment, thearrestor plate 810 may be mounted to the sidewall 236 (or other portionof the surface cleaning apparatus 100). It will be appreciated that, inother embodiments, cyclone 170 and dirt collection chamber 172 may be ofany other configuration suitable for separating dirt from an air streamand collecting the separated dirt respectively.

Referring to FIGS. 2 and 4, surface cleaning apparatus 100 may include apre-motor filter 180 provided in the air flow path 136 downstream of airtreatment member 116 and upstream of suction motor 160. Pre-motor filter180 may be formed from any suitable physical, porous filter media. Forexample, pre-motor filter 180 may be one or more of a foam filter, feltfilter, HEPA filter, or other physical filter media. In someembodiments, pre-motor filter 180 may include an electrostatic filter,or the like. As shown, pre-motor filter 180 may be located in apre-motor filter housing 184 that is external to the air treatmentmember 116.

As shown in FIG. 2, dirty air inlet 108 may be the inlet end 188 of anair inlet conduit 192. Optionally, inlet end 188 of air inlet conduit192 can be used as a nozzle to directly clean a surface. Alternatively,or in addition to functioning as a nozzle, air inlet conduit 192 may beconnected (e.g. directly connected) to the downstream end of anysuitable accessory tool such as a rigid air flow conduit (e.g., an abovefloor cleaning wand), a crevice tool, a mini brush, and the like. Asshown, dirty air inlet 108 may be positioned forward of air treatmentmember 116, although this need not be the case.

In the embodiments of FIGS. 2 and 4, the air treatment member 116comprises one or more cyclonic cleaning stages 168, the air treatmentair inlet is a cyclone air inlet 196 (e.g. a tangential air inlet offirst stage 1681), and the air treatment member air outlet is a cycloneair outlet 204 (e.g. of second stage 1682). The cyclone air inlet 196may have a length (or height) 196 a in the direction of the cyclone axis232 (see e.g., FIGS. 45-47). In operation, after activating suctionmotor 160, dirty air enters apparatus 100 through dirty air inlet 108and is directed along air inlet conduit 192 to the cyclone air inlet 196of first stage 1681. As shown, cyclone air inlet 196 may direct thedirty air flow to enter cyclone chamber 176 in a tangential direction soas to promote cyclonic action. Dirt particles and other debris may bedisentrained (i.e. separated) from the dirty air flow as the dirty airflow travels through first cyclonic stage 168 ₁—from the respectivecyclone air inlet 196 to cyclone air outlet 204. The disentrained dirtparticles and debris may collect in dirt collection chamber or region172 of first stage 168 ₁, where the dirt particles and debris may bestored until the dirt collection region is emptied. From cyclone airoutlet 204, the air may flow downstream through second stage 168 ₂—fromthe respective cyclone air inlet(s) 196 to cyclone air outlet 204,whereby separated dirt particles may discharge through dirt outlet 178into dirt collection chamber 172.

Air exiting a cyclone chamber 176 may pass through an outlet passage 208located upstream of the cyclone air outlet 204. Cyclone chamber outletpassage 208 may also act as a vortex finder to promote cyclonic flowwithin cyclone chamber 176. In some embodiments, cyclone outlet passage208 may include a porous member, such as a screen or shroud 212 (e.g. afine mesh screen) in the air flow path 136 to remove large dirtparticles and debris, such as hair, remaining in the exiting air flow.The screen or shroud 212 may have any configurations known in the art.For example, the shroud 212 may be cylindrical (e.g., FIGS. 1-31,49-50), conical or frusto-concial (see e.g., FIGS. 45-48). The shroud212 may also have any suitable axial length 502. For example, the axiallength 502 of the shroud 212 may be approximately ⅕^(th) of the cycloneheight 320 (see e.g., FIG. 46), ⅖^(th) of the cyclone height (e.g., FIG.47), ⅗^(th) of the cyclone height (e.g., FIG. 45), or ⅘^(th) of thecyclone height. In other cases, the axial height 502 of the shroud 212may be expressed as a proportion of the cyclone inlet height 196 a. Forexample, the axial height 502 of the shroud 212 may be in a range of0.25-40, 0.50-20, 0.50-20, 1-5, or 1.5 to 3 times the cyclone inletheight 196 a.

From cyclone air outlet 204 of second stage 168 ₂, the air flow may bedirected into pre-motor filter housing 184 at an upstream side 216 ofpre-motor filter 180. The air flow may pass through pre-motor filter180, and then exit through pre-motor filter housing air outlet 220 intomotor housing 164. At motor housing 164, the clean air flow may be drawninto suction motor 160 and then discharged from apparatus 100 throughclean air outlet 112. Prior to exiting the clean air outlet 112, thetreated air may pass through a post-motor filter 224, which may includeone or more layers of filter media.

Power may be supplied to suction motor 160 and other electricalcomponents of apparatus 100 from an onboard energy storage member 228(FIG. 2) which may include, for example, one or more batteries or otherenergy storage device. The energy storage member 228 may be operable ineither a low power mode or a high power mode. In the low power mode, theenergy storage member 228 may operate the suction motor 160 at a lowpower level. For example, the low power mode may be used to extend therun time of the energy storage member 228. In contrast, in the highpower mode, the energy storage member 228 may operate the suction motor160 at a high power level. In various cases, the high power mode may beused to increase the cleaning performance of the apparatus 100, whichmay result in a shorter run time. In the example of FIG. 2, apparatus100 includes a battery pack 228. Battery pack 228 may be permanentlyconnected to apparatus 100 and rechargeable in-situ, or removable fromapparatus 100. In the example shown, battery pack 228 is located belowhandle 104. Alternatively or in addition to battery pack 228, power maybe supplied to apparatus 100 by an electrical cord (not shown) connectedto apparatus 100 that can be electrically connected to mains power by ata standard wall electrical outlet.

Cyclone with an Openable Sidewall

The following is a discussion of a cyclone with an openable sidewall,which may be may be used by itself or with one or more of the moveablescreen, the dual end walls, the medial cyclone air inlet, the exteriordirt collection chamber the axially extending member (verticallyextending screen), and the dirt ejection mechanism.

A cyclone separates dirt and debris from an air stream that is movedthrough a cyclone chamber. Separated dirt and debris may be collected ina dirt collection chamber that is external to the cyclone chamber (e.g.,via a cyclone chamber dirt outlet) or separated dirt and debris may becollected in a dirt collection region that is interior of the cyclone asexemplified by cyclone 168 ₁ of FIG. 2. A cyclone may be emptyablethrough an openable end door. However, some separated dirt and debrismay collect on other interior surfaces of the cyclone, which may not beeasily removed through the openable end door. For example, dirt anddebris may accumulate or become entangled on the screen of a vortexfinder of the cyclone. If not removed, this dirt and debris will occupyspace inside the cyclone thereby reducing the volume available forcyclonic flow, which may reduce the dirt separation efficiency of theair treatment member. According to this aspect, a cyclone chamber isopenable other than by merely opening the end of the cyclone chamber.

FIGS. 5-6 exemplify a cyclone, which may be referred to as a cyclonicair treatment member 116, in accordance with an embodiment. As shown,cyclone bin assembly includes a cyclone 170 with a cyclone chamber 176,a cyclone air inlet 196, a cyclone air outlet 204, and a cyclone axis ofrotation 232 (also referred to as cyclone axis 232). The cyclone chamber176 has a cyclone chamber sidewall 236 that extends axially between thechamber first end 240 and the chamber second end 244. In the exemplifiedembodiment, the cyclone 170 is configured as a generally vertical,upright cyclone, wherein the cyclone air outlet 204 is positioned at thefirst cyclone end 240, and the first cyclone end 240 is positioned abovethe second cyclone end 244. In other embodiments, the cyclone 170 can beconfigured as a generally vertical, inverted cyclone, wherein thecyclone air outlet 204 is positioned at the second cyclone end 244, withthe first cyclone end 240 is positioned above the second cyclone end 244(see for example FIGS. 111-113). Other cyclone designs known in the artmay also be used.

As exemplified, in accordance with this aspect, cyclone chamber sidewall236 comprises a first portion 248 and a second portion 252 which aremoveably mounted with respect to each other so as to provide an area toaccess the interior of the cyclone chamber that is larger than the crosssectional area of the end wall of the cyclone at second end 244. Asexemplified, first portion 248 is moveable relative to sidewall secondportion 252 between a closed position (FIG. 1) and an open position(FIGS. 5-6). In the closed position (FIG. 1), sidewall first portion 248may meet (e.g. seal to) sidewall second portion 252 at first and secondjunctures 2541 and 2542. This closes cyclone chamber 176 so that cyclone170 can function to separate dirt and debris from air flow movingthrough cyclone chamber 176. In the open position, sidewall firstportion 248 is at least partially separated (e.g. spaced apart from)sidewall second portion 252 to define opening(s) 256 into cyclonechamber 176. Dirt and debris collected, accumulated, or tangled withincyclone chamber 176 can be easily removed through cyclone chamberopening(s) 256. As exemplified in FIGS. 124A-124C, in some embodiments,the cyclone air inlet 196 may be provided along the sidewall firstportion 248 (e.g., an openable bottom wall or an openable bottom portionas exemplified), and accordingly, may be moveable with the sidewallportion 248 to the open position (see for example FIG. 124C).

Referring to FIGS. 1, 5, and 6, each juncture 254 may be defined wherean edge of sidewall first portion 248 meets an edge of sidewall secondportion 252 in the closed position. As shown, first portion 248 mayinclude first edge 2601, second portion 252 may include first edge 2602,and edges 260 may abut each other in the closed position to define firstjuncture 2541. Similarly, first portion 248 may include second edge2641, second portion 252 may include second edge 2642, and edges 264 mayabut each other in the closed position to define second juncture 2542.In the open position (FIGS. 5-6), both edges 260, 264 may be moved apartto create an opening 256 into cyclone chamber 176 for emptying dirt anddebris contained inside or, as exemplified in FIG. 14, one of the edges260, 264 may be moved apart to create an opening 256 into cyclonechamber 176.

Edges 260, 264 may be the plastic edges of the cyclone chamber side wallthat abut each other or, alternately, a gasket or the like may beprovided to assist in providing a seal along the juncture. The edges maybe planar or an alternate shape to assist in providing a seal, such astongue and groove.

One or both of junctures 254 may extend at a (non-zero) angle 270 to aplane 268 that is transverse to cyclone axis 232. For example, asexemplified in FIG. 5, the juncture may extend axially (perpendicular toplane 268) or at an angle between 0° and 90° exclusive, as exemplifiedin FIGS. 10 and 117-120.

A sidewall first portion 248 that opens along junctures 254 angled inthis way can provide an opening 256 into cyclone chamber 176, which hasan axial dimension and which has a greater cross-sectional area thanopening the end wall of a cyclone, thereby providing better access todirt and debris contained inside cyclone chamber 176. In contrast, ancyclonic air treatment member having only an end wall door, may requirethe user to reach their hand and arm through the open end wall door intothe cyclone chamber to clear dirt and debris (e.g. accumulated ortangled on a vortex finder), which may be unpleasant for the user.

Sidewall first portion 248 may be moveably mounted with respect tosidewall second portion 252, sidewall second portion 252 may be moveablymounted with respect to sidewall first portion 248 or both sidewallportions 248, 252 may be moveable with respect to each other.

In the illustrated example, junctures 2541 and 2542 extend axiallyparallel to cyclone axis 232. When sidewall first portion 248 is movedrelative to sidewall second portion 252 to separate sidewall firstportion 248 from sidewall second portion 252 along junctures 254, theresulting cyclone chamber opening 256 extends axially (i.e. along anaxial length of cyclone chamber 176). An advantage of this design isthat the axial dimension of cyclone chamber opening 256 provides a largeopening 256 and thereby improves user-access to dirt and debris that maybe located throughout cyclone chamber 176. For example, when sidewallfirst portion 248 is moved to the open position, cyclone chamber opening256 may allow user access to debris at both cyclone chamber ends 240,244 without having to unpleasantly reach a length of their arm into thedirty and dusty cyclone chamber 176.

Sidewall first portion 248 may be movably mounted with respect tosidewall second portion 252 in any manner that allows sidewall firstportion 248 to move between a closed position (FIG. 1) and an openposition (FIGS. 5-6). For example, sidewall first portion 248 may berotatable (e.g., as exemplified in FIGS. 27-30), pivotable (asexemplified in FIGS. 5 and 14), translatable (as exemplified in FIG.31), or any combination thereof, relative to sidewall second portion252.

Referring to FIGS. 5-6, sidewall first portion 248 is pivotable relativeto sidewall second portion 252. As exemplified, sidewall first portion248 is connected to cyclone 170 by a hinge 272 that defines a rotationaxis 276 (sometimes referred to as a ‘pivot axis’).

Rotation axis 276 may have any position suitable to allow sidewall firstportion 248 to pivot relative to sidewall second portion 252 between theclosed and open positions. For example, rotation axis 276 may bepositioned external to cyclone chamber 176 as shown, or rotation axis276 may extend through cyclone chamber 176. As shown, positioningrotation axis 276 external cyclone chamber 176 can allow hinge 272 to belocated outside of cyclone chamber 176, such that hinge 272 does notinterfere with air flow through cyclone chamber 176 and does not occupyspace within cyclone chamber 176. Rotation axis 276 may also be locatedat any location along the axial length of the cyclone. For example, axis276 may be located at one end of the cyclone chamber as exemplified inFIG. 5, or at an intermediate location along the length of the cyclonesidewall.

Rotation axis 276 may have any orientation suitable to allow sidewallfirst portion 248 to pivot relative to sidewall second portion 252between the closed and open positions. For example, rotation axis 276may be oriented transverse to cyclone axis 232 (see, e.g., FIG. 5), orrotation axis 276 may extend axially (e.g. parallel to cyclone axis 232,see e.g., FIG. 14). An advantage of the design of FIG. 5 is that the endof sidewall first portion 248 distal to axis 276 may rotate farther awayfrom sidewall second portion 252 in the open position per degree ofrotation. Accordingly, rotation axis 276 positioned and oriented asshown may provide greater user access to a lower end of the interior ofcyclone chamber 176 to remove the contained dirt and debris.

Hinge 272 may be any device suitable to (directly or indirectly) connectsidewall first portion 248 to sidewall second portion 252 and allowsidewall first portion 248 to rotate relative to sidewall second portion252 between the closed and open positions. For example, hinge 272 mayhave a multi-part design as shown, or hinge 272 may be a single-partliving hinge. As compared to a single-part living hinge 272, amulti-part hinge 272 typically provides greater strength and workinglife (e.g. number of rotations before failure). A single-part livinghinge 272 allows chamber first end 240 to be integrally formed withcyclone 170, which reduces the number of components, which in turn canreduce manufacturing and assembly costs.

Referring to FIGS. 1, 5, and 6, a cyclone chamber opening 256 may havean area 280 that is larger than an opening provided by an openable doorat cyclone end wall 244. For example, opening area 280 may be greaterthan a cross-sectional area 284 measured on a plane 268 that isperpendicular to cyclone axis 232. The comparatively larger opening area280 provides greater user access to remove dirt and debris from aninterior of cyclone chamber 176 as compared to an end wall door. In someembodiments, opening area 280 may be at least 120% (e.g. 120% to 500%)of chamber cross-sectional area 284. In the illustrated example, theopening area 280 of each cyclone chamber opening 256 is at least 200% ofchamber cross-sectional area 284.

Referring to FIGS. 5-6, one or more parts of cyclone chamber 176 or dirtcollection chamber 172 may be movable with sidewall first portion 248 tothe open position. This can allow those part(s) to be reoriented in theopen position in a way that provides greater user access to dirt anddebris collected on those part(s), and/or that allows dirt and debriscollected on those part(s) to fall out of chamber(s) 172, 176 by gravity(e.g. into a waste bin below). In general, the more dirt and debris thatfalls out of chamber(s) 172, 176 by gravity alone, results in lessunpleasant user-contact with dirt and debris to clean out chamber(s)172, 176.

In the illustrated example, cyclone chamber second end wall 244 isconnected to sidewall first portion 248 so that cyclone chamber secondend wall 244 rotates with sidewall first portion 248 to the openposition. This tilts the surface of cyclone chamber second end wall 244towards an axial (e.g. vertical) orientation, which can allow dirt anddebris collected on cyclone chamber second end wall 244 to fall out ofchambers 172, 176 by gravity. This also removes cyclone chamber secondend wall 244 from sidewall second portion 252 so that dirt and debrisassociated with sidewall second portion 252 can fall out of chambers172, 176 by gravity instead of forming a pile on cyclone chamber secondend wall 244 at the bottom end.

In an alternative embodiment, cyclone chamber second end wall 244 mayremain with sidewall second portion 252 when sidewall first portion 248is moved to the open position.

In any embodiment, cyclone chamber second end wall 244 may be openable,e.g., it may be pivotally mounted to one of the sidewall portions 248,252.

As mentioned previously, FIGS. 10-11 and 117-120 exemplify an embodimentwherein the juncture extends at an angle between 0° and 90° exclusive totransverse plane 268. The sidewall portions 248, 252 meet along asidewall juncture 254 in the closed position (FIGS. 10, 117 and 119) andmay be pivoted away from each other to the open position (FIGS. 11, 118and 120). In the open position, edges 260 of sidewall portions 248, 252are spaced apart, and each sidewall portion 248, 252 has a cyclonechamber opening 256.

In accordance with this embodiment, sidewall juncture 254 forms(non-zero) angles to both cyclone axis 232 and transverse plane 268.Accordingly, sidewall juncture 254 has an axial extent or dimension thatcreates comparatively large area chamber openings 256 in the openposition, but that does not extend axially parallel to cyclone axis 232.As compared to a sidewall juncture that is parallel to cyclone axis 232,the illustrated sidewall juncture 254 has a shorter linear length, whichmay result in less cost, less complexity, and greater reliability inmaintaining an air tight seal along sidewall juncture 254 in the closedposition.

Sidewall juncture 254 may be located anywhere between cyclone chamberends 240, 244. Preferably, sidewall juncture 254 is spaced apart fromcyclone chamber end 240, 244. This positions sidewall juncture 254 morecentrally between cyclone chamber ends 240, 244 whereby in the openposition, the maximum distance from cyclone chamber openings 256 to aninterior surface of cyclone chamber 176 is reduced. For example,sidewall juncture 254 may be spaced from cyclone chamber first end 240by a distance 336, spaced from cyclone chamber second end 244 by adistance 340, and each of distances 336 and 340 may be at least 10%,20%, 30%, 40% or 50% (e.g. 10% to 50%, 20% to 40%) of cyclone chamberheight 320.

Still referring to FIGS. 10-11, sidewall juncture 254 has a first end344 having a first axial position, a second end 348 having a secondaxial position, and some or all of screen 212 has an axial positionlocated between the axial positions of the sidewall juncture ends 344,348. As shown in FIG. 11, this can allow some or all of screen 212 toextend out of a cyclone chamber opening 256 when the cyclone is in theopen position, which can provide easy user-access to surfaces of screen212 for cleaning.

As with the embodiment of FIGS. 5 and 6, cyclone second end 244 may be amovable (e.g. pivotable, translatable, and/or removable) end wall 352.As exemplified, cyclone second end 244 includes an openable door 352.Door 352 can be opened to empty the majority of loose dirt and debriscontained in cyclone chamber 176. This can mitigate loose dirt anddebris spilling uncontrollably when moving sidewall first portion 248 tothe open position. An openable door 352 may be provided at one or bothends of the cyclone and, e.g., may be pivotally connected to one or bothof sidewall portions 248, 252. In the illustrated example, openable door352 is pivotally connected by a hinge 356 to sidewall first portion 248,and a latch 360 is provided to removably secure openable door 352closed.

As mentioned previously, FIG. 14 exemplifies an axially extending pivotaxis 276. An advantage of this design is that in the open position, eachsidewall portion is opened and the cyclone chamber openings 256 mayextend the full axial length of cyclone chamber 176. This provides easyuser-access to dirt and debris located anywhere inside of cyclonechamber 176. It will be appreciated that the hinge may extend along onlypart of the axial length of the sidewall.

Sidewall portions 248, 252 can have any circumferential angular extent.For example, sidewall first portion 248 may have a circumferentialangular extent of between 25° and 335°. More preferably, thecircumferential angular extent may be more balanced as between sidewallportions 248, 252 so that each sidewall portion 248, 252 has aconveniently large cyclone chamber opening 256 in the open position. Forexample, the circumferential angular extent of sidewall first portion248 may be between 135° and 225°. In the illustrated example, bothsidewall portions 248 have an angular extent of about 180°. Thisprovides each sidewall portion 248, 252 with a similarly large cyclonechamber opening 256.

Sidewall first portion 248 may be pivotally mounted about an axialrotation axis 276. This allows cyclone 170 to have a relatively smallerfootprint when in the open position so that all of cyclone 170 can beunderlied by a standard sized waste bin that is collecting dirt anddebris falling from cyclone 170. In the illustrated example, rotationaxis 276 is parallel to cyclone axis 232. In some embodiments, sidewallhinge 272 is a piano hinge that is provided on an exterior of thesidewall and extends axially along sidewall portions 248, 252.

Hinge 272 may extend from one end of the cyclone chamber to the otherend of the cyclone chamber as exemplified in FIG. 14, or it may extendalong only part of the axial length. For example, it may extend from oneend of the cyclone chamber towards the other end or it may extend alongonly part of an intermediate section of the sidewall between the firstand second axially opposed cyclone ends. In such a case, the sidewallportion that opens may define a door having upper and lower ends thatmate with the other sidewall portion along upper and lower edges thatextend around a portion of the perimeter of the sidewall.

FIGS. 19-21 exemplify an alternate embodiment wherein the axis 276extends in the direction of the cyclone axis of rotation 232 but whereinthe axis 276 extends through the cyclone chamber. Optionally, asexemplified, rotation axis 276 is coaxial or collinear with cyclone axis232. Sidewall first portion 248 is rotatable about axis 276 relative tosidewall second portion 252 from a closed position to an open position(FIG. 20) in which sidewall portions 248, 252 are partially orcompletely nested with one another. For example, sidewall first portion248 may nest within sidewall second portion 252 as shown, or vice versa.An advantage of this design is that it may provide even greater exposureto interior surfaces of cyclone chamber 176. Further, this design mayreduce the time and effort required to clean out cyclone chamber 176because the act of nesting one sidewall portion into the other may emptythe outer sidewall portion into the inner sidewall portion or out ofcyclone chamber 176. Thus, the user may have only to attend to emptyingdirt and debris associated with the inner sidewall portion. Also, anopen position in which sidewall portions 248, 252 are nested may reducethe footprint of cyclone chamber 176, which may make it possible oreasier to empty cyclone chamber 176 into a waste bin below withoutspilling.

Each sidewall portion 248, 252 is exemplified as an axial cylindricalsegment. In the example shown, each sidewall portion 248, 252 has acircumferential angular extent of approximately 180°. This allows thesidewall portions 248, 252 to completely nest with each other in theopen position (FIG. 20). In other embodiments, the circumferentialangular extent of each sidewall portion 248, 252 may differ from 180°.For example, the inner sidewall portion 248 may have an angular extentof greater than or less than 180°.

It will be appreciated that cyclone chamber sidewall 236 may include anynumber of sidewall portions, which are mounted so that they can moverelative to each other between a closed position and an open position.Accordingly, while FIGS. 20-21 show an embodiment in which cyclonechamber sidewall 236 includes two sidewall portion 248, 252 that areeach an axial cylindrical segment, and which are nested in the openposition (FIG. 21), a larger number of segments may be provided. Thismay permit cyclone chamber 176 to have an open position that provideseven greater user-access to the interior volume, surfaces, and contentsof cyclone chamber 176. In turn, this may make it easier for the user toclean cyclone chamber 176 of dirt and debris.

For example, FIGS. 27-30 show an example including three sidewallportions 248, 252, 388, each of which is an axial cylindrical segment,and which are nested in the open position (FIG. 30). Sidewall portions248, 252, 388 may have the same circumferential angular extent as shown(e.g. approximately 120°), or one or more (or all) of sidewall portions248, 252, 388 may have a different circumferential angular extent ascompared to each other sidewall portion 248, 252, 388. As shown, thelarger number of sidewall portions 248, 252, 388 may result in a largerportion of cyclone outlet passage 208 being located outside of cyclonechamber 176 when in the open position, even where cyclone outlet passage208 is not movably mounted (i.e. where cyclone outlet passage 208 isrigidly connected to cyclone 170). In the illustrated example, cyclonechamber 176 spans approximately 120° in the open position such thatapproximately 240° (i.e. about two thirds) of cyclone outlet passage 208is positioned outside of cyclone chamber 176.

As mentioned previously, FIGS. 31-32 exemplify an embodiment in whichsidewall first portion 248 is axially translatable to the open positionas shown. Depending on the manner in which cyclonic air treatment member116 is connected to the surface cleaning apparatus, this design mayprevent cyclone chamber 176 from being opened while connected to thesurface cleaning apparatus. As shown, sidewall portions 248, 252 maymeet (e.g. be sealed) at first and second junctures 254. First juncture2541 may be parallel to second juncture 2542 and angularly spaced aroundcyclone chamber 176 from second juncture 2542. In the example shown,both junctures 254 extend axially (e.g. parallel to cyclone axis 232).

FIG. 34 exemplifies an embodiment in which sidewall first portion 248 isan axial cylindrical segment, which is pivotally mounted to cyclone 170so that it can rotate about a rotation axis 276, which is transverse(e.g. perpendicular) to cyclone axis 232.

Moveable Screen

The following is a discussion of a moveable screen, which may be may beused by itself or with one or more of the cyclone with an openablesidewall, the dual end walls, the medial cyclone air inlet, the exteriordirt collection chamber the axially extending member (verticallyextending screen), and the dirt ejection mechanism.

As exemplified in FIGS. 5-6, cyclone 170 may include a cyclone outletpassage (e.g. vortex finder) 208 including a porous member, which may bereferred to as a screen or shroud 212, that may collect larger dirtparticles and debris (e.g. hair) which remains entrained in the air flowexiting the cyclone 170. When sidewall first portion 248 is in an openposition, a portion of screen 212 may remain in close proximity to oneof sidewall portions 248, 252, and that proximity may make user accessto clean that portion of screen 212 difficult (e.g. the clearance may betoo small for a user's fingers). In some embodiments, cyclone outletpassage 208 may be movably mounted with respect to one or both of thesidewall portions 248, 252. This can allow the user better access toclean surfaces of screen 212.

In accordance with this aspect, the cyclone outlet passage (e.g. vortexfinder) 208 is moveable so as to permit easier access to more of theperimeter of the outlet passage and, optionally, all of the perimeter ofthe outlet passage.

Cyclone outlet passage 208 may be movably mounted with respect to one orboth sidewall portions 248, 252 in any manner suitable to improveuser-access to some or all of the outer surface of screen 212. Forexample, cyclone outlet passage 208 may be removable from cyclone 170,or cyclone outlet passage 208 may be rotatable, translatable, or bothwhile remaining connected to cyclone 170.

As exemplified in FIGS. 5-6 and 7-9, cyclone outlet passage 208 ismovably mounted with respect to both sidewall portions 248, 252. Asshown, when sidewall first portion 248 is moved to the open position,cyclone outlet passage 208 is movable away from sidewall portion 252,concurrently, or subsequently, outlet passage 208 may be moved away fromsidewall portion 248. This increases the clearances between screen 212and both sidewall portions 248, 252, which can greatly improveuser-access to clean surfaces of screen 212.

In the illustrated example, cyclone outlet passage 208 is pivotableabout a rotation axis 288 relative to sidewall portion 248. As shown,this allows cyclone outlet passage 208 to rotate away from sidewallportion 248 when in the open position. Accordingly, when the sidewallportions are pivoted open and the screen is pivoted to the open positionshown in FIG. 6, clearances 292, 296 between screen 212 and sidewallportions 248, 252 respectively increase to provide greater user-accessto the outer surface of screen 212 for cleaning. See also FIG. 33.

In the example shown, cyclone outlet passage 208 is pivotally connectedto sidewall first portion 248. Alternatively, cyclone outlet passage 208may be pivotally connected to sidewall second portion 252 or to anotherportion of cyclone 170.

FIG. 12 exemplifies an alternate embodiment wherein cyclone outletpassage 208, including screen 212, is removable from cyclone 170 aftersidewall first portion 248 is moved to the open position. This can allowcyclone outlet passage 208 to be most easily cleaned, and optionallyreplaced if it is a consumable item or damaged.

FIG. 13 exemplifies an embodiment in which cyclone outlet passage 208,including screen 212, is translatable relative to sidewall portions 248,252. As shown, cyclone outlet passage 208 may be translatably connectedto one of the sidewall portions, e.g., sidewall portion 252, wherebycyclone outlet passage 208 can move along track 364 through cyclonechamber opening 256. This moves screen 212 out of cyclone chamber 176 sothat it can be easily cleaned of dirt and debris by the user.

As exemplified in FIGS. 14-16, cyclone outlet passage 208 (includingscreen 212) may be pivotable about an axial screen rotation axis 372. Asshown, this design allows cyclone outlet passage 208 to be rotated outof the cyclone chamber to provide easy user-access to surfaces of screen212 for cleaning. In this example, screen rotation axis 372 is shown asparallel to cyclone axis 232. In other embodiments, screen rotation axis372 may be oriented at a (non-zero) angle to cyclone axis 232. A similardesign is useable in the embodiment of FIG. 26.

Dual End Walls

The following is a discussion of dual end walls, which may be may beused by itself or with one or more of the cyclone with an openablesidewall, the moveable screen, the medial cyclone air inlet, theexterior dirt collection chamber the axially extending member(vertically extending screen), and the dirt ejection mechanism.

An advantage of this design is that each openable sidewall portion mayhave part of the end wall 244. This can facilitate sealing the cyclonechamber when the sidewall portions are in the closed position.

As exemplified in FIG. 14, half of the end wall 244 may be fixedlymounted to each sidewall portion 248, 252.

Alternately, as exemplified in FIGS. 16-17, each end wall portion may beopenable. As exemplified therein, cyclone chamber 176 may include anopenable end wall 352 at chamber second end 244. As shown, openable endwall 352 may include a first wall portion 376 movably (e.g. pivotally)connected to sidewall first portion 248 and a second wall portion 380movably (e.g. pivotally) connected to sidewall second portion 252 asshown. An advantage of this design is that upon opening end wall 352 toempty dirt and debris from cyclone chamber 176 into a waste bin below,the end wall portions 376, 380 may tend to funnel the falling dirt anddebris into a waste bin below. This may mitigate the dirt and debrisspilling laterally outside of the waste bin upon opening end wall 352.

FIGS. 19-21 exemplify the use of two end wall segments in a rotationalopening design. As shown, in the open position (FIG. 20), end wallportion 376 may overlie end wall portion 380. As compared with an endwall 352 that remains whole (e.g. if the design of end wall 352 of FIG.18 were used and end wall 352 was mounted in a fixed position to asidewall portion), this design may reduce the effective surface area ofend wall 352 in the open position so that dirt and debris can fall outof cyclone chamber 176 more easily. Furthermore, this design may makecleaning cyclone chamber 176 easier in that the act of moving wallsecond portion 380 under wall first portion 376 may automatically pushdirt and debris collected on wall second portion 380 out of cyclonechamber 176.

FIG. 24 exemplifies the use of two end wall segments in a rotationalopening design wherein door portions 376, 380 are separately openable.

Medial Cyclone Air Inlet

The following is a discussion of a cyclone with a medial cyclone airinlet, which may be may be used by itself or with one or more of thecyclone with an openable sidewall, the moveable screen, the dual endwalls, the exterior dirt collection chamber the axially extending member(vertically extending screen), and the dirt ejection mechanism.

Optionally, the cyclone air inlet may be located in a medial positionbetween the first cyclone end and the second cyclone end, and may beprovided on the cyclone sidewall (e.g., the cyclone inlet may be atangential air inlet terminating at a port in the sidewall).Accordingly, dirty air may enter the medial inlet, and may flow insideof the cyclone chamber in two directions: (a) axially toward the firstcyclone end, and (b) axially toward the second cyclone end. An advantageof this configuration is that cyclonic action is promoted in both theupper and lower portions of the cyclone unit, which may tend to improvethe dirt separation efficiency of the cyclone unit.

Optionally, a flange may extend at least part way around the innersurface of the cyclone sidewall to overlie or underlie the medialcyclone air inlet. In various cases, the flange may control (e.g.,limit) the volume of air flowing axially (e.g., upwardly or downwardlyif the first cyclone end is positioned over the second cyclone end)inside of the cyclone chamber. The flange may be placed at an axial endof the cyclone inlet, or it may be spaced therefrom.

In the drawings, the cyclone is oriented with the first cyclone endpositioned over the second cyclone end. Accordingly, the cyclone isoriented vertically and the portions of the cyclone may consequentiallybe referred to as upward or above or downward or below and the flow ofthe air may consequentially be referred to as upwardly or downwardly. Itwill be appreciated that the cyclone may be oriented, and used, invarious orientations.

Referring now to FIG. 38, as exemplified, the first cyclone end 240 maybe positioned over the second cyclone end 244. In this configuration,the axial height 320 of the cyclone unit 170 may be divided into threeportions: an upper portion 320 a, a lower portion 320 b, and a medialportion 320 c located between the upper and lower portions 320 a, 320 b.

The upper and lower portions 320 a, 320 b may comprise any relativeproportions of the axial height 320 of the cyclone unit 170. Forexample, each of the upper and lower portions may comprise 10%, 15%,20%, or 25% of the total axial height 320 of the cyclone unit 170.Accordingly, the medial portion may comprise 80%, 70%, 60% or 50% of theremaining axial height 320 of the cyclone unit 170, respectively.

As exemplified in FIGS. 36 to 41, the cyclone air inlet 196 may belocated laterally (e.g., it may be a tangential air inlet) on the sidewall 236 of the medial portion 320 c. Accordingly as best exemplified byFIG. 38, air entering the cyclone chamber 176 via the medial inlet 196flows (e.g., travels) in two directions: (a) axially upwardly toward thefirst cyclone end 240, and (b) axially downwardly toward the secondcyclone end 244. In this manner, rotational upflow cyclone action (orinverted cyclone action) is induced in the upper cyclone portion 320 a,and rotational down flow cyclone action is induced in the lower cycloneportion 320 b. In various cases, this may help to increase the dirtseparation efficiency of the cyclone unit. For example, finer or lessdense particles of dust and dirt may travel upwardly into the uppercyclone portion 320 a to be ejected into the external dirt chamber 172b, while coarser or denser particles of dust and dirt may traveldownwardly into the lower cyclone portion 320 b to aggregate inside ofthe lower end of the cyclone chamber, e.g., an internal dirt collectionchamber 172 a.

The cyclone air inlet, which in this aspect may be referred to as amedial air inlet or medial inlet 196, may be provided at any locationwithin the medial portion 320 c. For instance, the medial inlet 196 maybe provided in an axially upper portion of the medial portion 320 c (seee.g., FIG. 38), a middle portion of the medial portion 320 c (e.g., FIG.80), or a lower portion of the medial portion 320 c (see e.g., FIG. 45).

Optionally, the medial inlet 196 is located below a location at whichair may exit the cyclone chamber. Accordingly, the upper end of themedial inlet 196 may be positioned below the cyclone outlet passage 208and/or the shroud 212, or at least adjacent an axially inward end 212 aof the shroud 212. If the axial inward end 212 a is solid (e.g., i.e.,no air flow passes therethrough), then the medial inlet 196 may bepositioned adjacent or below the porous portion of the screen 212.

It will be appreciated that while only a single medial inlet 196 hasbeen illustrated in the exemplified embodiments, in other embodiments,more than one medial inlet 196 may be provided inside of the cyclonechamber 170. For example, two or more medial inlets 196 may bevertically spaced along the cyclone sidewall 236. Alternatively, or inaddition, two or more medial inlets 196 may be spaced along theperimeter of the cyclone sidewall 236.

Optionally, as best exemplified in FIGS. 39, 42 and 44, a flange 392 mayextend around at least a portion of the inner surface of the cyclonesidewall 236, and may extend inwardly, and optionally radially inwardlyinto the cyclone chamber 176. The flange 392 may be formed of anysuitable material, including resilient material. For example, the flangemay be made of the same material as the cyclone sidewall and may bemolded as part thereof,

In the exemplified embodiments, the flange 392 is positioned axiallyabove the medial inlet 196, and preferably, axially below the cycloneoutlet 208 and/or the shroud 212. Without being limited by theory, inthis configuration, the flange 392 blocks or inhibits some of the upwardair flow into the cyclone chamber 196 from the medial inlet 196. Inother words, the flange 392 may control the volume of air entering theupper cyclone portion 320 a. An advantage of this configuration is that,by limiting the upward air flow, the flange 392 may assist in a largerportion of the air travelling into the lower cyclone portion 320 band/or block larger dirt particles from being drawn upwardly into theupper portion 320 a. Accordingly, the flange 392 may increase the dirtseparation efficiency of the cyclone unit 170.

Alternatively, or in addition, a flange may be located axially below themedial inlet 196 (not shown). In this configuration, the flange mayinhibit (e.g., block) the downward flow of air into the lower cycloneportion 320 b.

As exemplified, the flange 392 may extend by any suitable distancearound the inner perimeter of the cyclone side wall 236. For example,the flange 392 may extend entirely around the inner surface of thecyclone sidewall 236 to define a central opening (e.g., FIGS. 44C, 44D,44G, 44H). In other cases, the flange 392 may extend around only aportion of the inner surface of the cyclone side wall 236 (e.g., FIGS.44A, 44B, 44E, 44F). For instance, the flange 392 may extend around onlya third or a half of the way around the inner perimeter of the cyclonesidewall.

The flange 392 may also extend radially inwardly into the cyclonechamber 176 by any variable distance. For example, the flange 392 mayhave a maximum radial width 394 of 3 mm (see e.g., FIGS. 44C and 44D) or6 mm (see e.g., FIGS. 44G and 44H). An advantage of a flange 392 havinga greater radial width 394 is that the flange 394 may block a greatervolume of air from entering the upper cyclone portion 320 a. Incontrast, an advantage of a flange 392 having a smaller radial width 394is that a smaller volume of air is blocked from flowing into the uppercyclone portion 320 a. In particular, as more air is permitted to flowupwardly into the upper cyclone portion 320 a, a lower volume of airreciprocally flows downwardly, into the lower cyclone portion 320 b.

As exemplified, the flange 392 may have a constant (e.g., uniform)radial width 394 (e.g., FIGS. 44C, 44D, 44G, 44H), or may have avariable radial width 394 along different portions of the flange 392(see e.g., FIGS. 44A, 44B, 44E, 44F).

The radial width 394 of the flange 392 may also be fixed or adjustable.For instance, the radial width of the flange may be adjustable to begreater or smaller. For instance, the flange 392 may function similar toa rotatable iris diaphragm, such that the flange 392 may be rotatedinwardly to increase the radial width 394, and rotated outwardly todecrease the radial width 394. Alternatively, or in addition, the flange392 may be translated inwardly and outwardly of the cyclone chamber 176to increase and decrease the radial width 394, respectively. Anadvantage of an adjustable flange configuration is that the radial widthmay be changed to vary the air flow rate into the upper and lowercyclone portions, respectively. In some cases, an adjusting mechanismcan be provided outside of the cyclone chamber 176 to facilitateadjusting of the radial width of the flange 392.

In various embodiments, the flange 392 may also be configured to beplanar or flat.

Alternately, or in addition, the flange may extend into the cyclonechamber in a plane that is transverse to the cyclone axis. In otherembodiments, the flange may extend into the cyclone chamber at an angleto a plane that is transverse to the cyclone axis.

In other embodiments, the flange 392 may be in the form of a spiral ofthe like extending around part or all of the circumference of thecyclone sidewall. In embodiments where the flange 392 twists or rotates,the flange may spiral in the direction of cyclonic air flow, or counterthe direction of cyclonic air flow.

Exterior Dirt Collection Chamber

The following is a discussion of an exterior dirt collection chamber,which may be may be used by itself or with one or more of the cyclonewith an openable sidewall, the moveable screen, the dual end walls, themedial cyclone air inlet, the axially extending member (verticallyextending screen), and the dirt ejection mechanism.

Optionally, a dirt collection chamber may be provided external to thecyclone unit chamber. Dust and dirt particles ejected into the externaldirt chamber may be separated from the cyclonic air flow in the cyclonechamber and, accordingly, may be prevented from being re-entrained intothe flow of air. This, in turn, may increase the dirt separationefficiency of the cyclone unit. In various cases, the external dirtchamber may collect finer particles of dust and dirt, while an internalcyclone dirt chamber may collect coarser particles of dust and dirt.

Referring now to FIGS. 35-41, 48, 51, and 79-83, as exemplified, the airtreatment member 116 may include a dirt collection chamber 172 b locatedexternal to the cyclone chamber 176. The external dirt chamber 172 b maycollect finer particles of dust and dirt, which would not otherwiseaggregate inside of the cyclone's internal dirt chamber 172 a.

As exemplified, the external dirt chamber 172 b may be in fluidcommunication with the cyclone chamber 176 via one or more dirt outlets178. For instance, the dirt chamber 172 b may communicate with thecyclone chamber 176 via one dirt outlet 178 (e.g., FIGS. 36-41), or twodirt outlets 178 a, 178 b spaced apart (e.g., FIGS. 79-83).

The dirt outlets 178 may be located in any position along the cycloneunit 170. For instance, the dirt outlets 178 may be laterally positionedalong the cyclone side wall 236—e.g., between the first and secondcyclone ends 240, 244 —to communicate with a laterally positioned dirtcollection chamber 172 b. In this configuration, the dirt outlets 178comprise slots which have any suitable axial height and which extendaround at least a portion of the perimeter of the cyclone side wall 236.In the exemplified embodiments, the dirt outlets 178 are positionedtoward the first cyclone end 240, and axially above the medial inlet196. An advantage of this configuration is that the dirt outlets 178 arepositioned to receive finer particles of dust and dirt carried upwardlyby the upflow of air from the medial inlet 196. In other cases, the dirtoutlet 178 can also be positioned at any other location along the axialheight 320 of the cyclone unit 170, including at the mid-point of thecyclone unit.

As exemplified, the external dirt chamber 172 b may be laterallypositioned relative to the cyclone sidewall 236. In this configuration,when the first cyclone end 240 is positioned over the second cyclone end244, the dirt chamber 172 b can be sized so as to not increase the axialheight of the cyclone unit 170. Alternately, some of the dirt chamber172 b may be provided above or below the cyclone unit 170.

The dirt chamber 172 b may partially or fully surround the lateral sideof the cyclone chamber 176. For example, the dirt chamber may be locatedon the side of the cyclone chamber, which is provided with the dirtoutlet. If more than one cyclone dirt outlet is provided, then the dirtoutlets may be in communication with a common external dirt chamber orthey may each be in communication with a single external dirt chamber.

As exemplified, the external dirt chamber 172 b may extend between afirst end 172 b ₁ and an axially spaced apart second end 172 b 2. Theaxial distance between the first and second ends may define the axialheight (e.g., depth) 402 of the dirt chamber 172 b. Preferably, the dirtchamber 172 b extends axially along an axis, which is substantiallyparallel to the cyclone axis 232. In other cases, however, the dirtchamber 172 b may extend along any other suitable axis.

The height or depth 402 of the dirt chamber 172 may be variablyconfigured. For example, the dirt chamber 172 b may have an axial height402 which is approximately ⅓^(rd) of the cyclone height 320 (e.g., FIG.37), ½ of the cyclone height (e.g., FIG. 83), ⅔^(rd) the cyclone height(e.g., FIG. 35), or substantially equal to the cyclone axial height(e.g., FIGS. 79-81). As stated previously, an advantage of a dirtchamber 172 b having an axial height which is less than or equal to thecyclone height 320 is to limit the extent to which the depth (e.g.,height) of the cyclone unit is increased. In other cases, however, thedirt chamber 172 b may have an axial height which is greater than thecyclone unit height. For instance, FIGS. 111-113 exemplify an embodimentwhere the axial height of the external dirt chamber 172 b is greaterthan the cyclone unit 170. As exemplified, when first cyclone end 240 ispositioned above the second cyclone end 244, the dirt chamber 172 bextends to a position below the cyclone chamber. In still yet othercases, different portions of the external dirt chamber 172 b may havedifferent axial heights.

As exemplified, the dirt chamber ends 172 b ₁ and 172 b 2 may bepositioned in any location relative to the cyclone chambers ends 240,244. For instance, in some cases, the first dirt chamber end 172 b ₁ maybe substantially flush with the first cyclone end 240 (e.g., FIGS. 36,and 111A). An advantage of this configuration is that the first cycloneend 240 may be concurrently openable with the first dirt chamber end 172b ₁, as explained in further detail herein. For example, the firstcyclone end 240 and the first dirt chamber end 172 b ₁ may be a commonmember (e.g., a single openable end wall). In other embodiments, thefirst dirt chamber end 172 b ₁ may be axially offset from the firstcyclone end 240. In either case, preferably, the first dirt chamber end172 b ₁ is positioned at, or proximal to, the dirt outlet 178. In thismanner, dirt is ejected into the top of the dirt chamber 172 b, and canfall downwardly to the second dirt chamber end 172 b 2 (assuming thefirst chamber end 172 b ₁ is positioned above the second chamber end 172b 2).

Similarly, the second chamber end 172 b 2 can be substantially flushwith the second cyclone end 244 (e.g., FIG. 79), slightly axially offsetfrom the second cyclone end (e.g., FIG. 81), or substantially axiallyoffset from the second cyclone end (e.g., FIG. 37, and FIG. 111A). Incases where the second dirt chamber end 172 b 2 is substantially flushwith the second cyclone end 244, or slight axially offset, the secondcyclone end 244 may be concurrently openable with the first dirt chamberend 172 b 2. For example, the second cyclone end 244 and the first dirtchamber end 172 b 2 may be a common member (e.g., a single openable endwall).

As discussed previously, optionally, one or both of the dirt chamberends 172 b ₁, 172 b ₂ is openable to allow cleaning and emptying of thedirt collection chamber 172 b. Optionally, the dirt chamber ends 172 b₁, 172 b ₂ are concurrently openable with a respective first or secondcyclone end 240, 244 to allow concurrent cleaning and emptying of thecyclone chamber and the dirt collection chamber.

For instance, as exemplified in FIG. 48, the first chamber end 172 b ₁may be flush with the first cyclone end 240, and the two chambers may beconcurrently openable via a single openable top lid 390. Similarly, thesecond dirt chamber end 172 b ₂ may be concurrently openable with thesecond cyclone end 244. For instance, as exemplified in FIGS. 79-82, thesecond chamber end 172 b ₁ may be located in the same plane as thesecond cyclone end 244 (e.g., FIGS. 79 and 80), or slightly axiallyoffset (e.g., FIGS. 81 and 82), and may share a common door 352. Openinga single door (e.g., door 352) may allow concurrent cleaning andemptying of both the external dirt chamber 172 b and the internalcyclone dirt chamber 172 a. In other cases, as exemplified in FIGS.37-40, the dirt collection chamber 172 may have a separate door 352 bfor independently emptying and cleaning the dirt chamber 172 b. Forexample, this configuration may be more suitable where the second dirtchamber end 172 b ₂ is substantially axially offset from the secondcyclone end 244 (e.g., FIGS. 37-40).

While only a single dirt chamber 172 b has been exemplified in theillustrated embodiments, it will be appreciated that the air treatmentmember 116 may also include more than one external dirt chamber 172 b.For example, two or more dirt chambers 172 b may be in communicationwith the cyclone chamber 176. The two or more dirt chambers may bepositioned, for example, on different lateral sides of the cyclone unit170, or on the same lateral side of the cyclone unit 170 (e.g.,vertically stacked). The two or more dirt chambers may communicate withthe cyclone chamber 176 via separate dirt outlets 178, or via a singlecommon dirt outlet. Where the cyclone unit 170 includes more than onecyclone stage (e.g., 168 ₁ and 168 ₂ in FIG. 89), each cyclone stage mayalso communicate with a separate external dirt chamber, or the cyclonestages may communicate with a single external dirt chamber (e.g., viaseparate dirt outlets).

Axially Extending Member (or Axially Extending Screen)

The following is a discussion of an axially extending member (which maybe an axially extending screen), which may be may be used by itself orwith one or more of the cyclone with an openable sidewall, the moveablescreen, the dual end walls, the medial cyclone air inlet, the exteriordirt collection chamber, and the dirt ejection mechanism.

In accordance with this aspect, the cyclone chamber and/or the externaldirt chamber may be provided with an axially extending member 304 whichmay be planar and which may be porous. The axially extending member 304may be provided inside the cyclone chamber 176 (e.g. the dirt collectionregion 172 a of the cyclone chamber 176) (see e.g., FIGS. 1-95B), and/orcan be provided inside of the external dirt collection chamber 172 b(see e.g., FIGS. 96-100). The axially extending member may also bereferred to herein as a “vertically extending member” (or a “verticalscreen” if the vertically extending member is porous) when the firstcyclone end 240 is positioned over the second cyclone end 244, or whenthe first external dirt chamber end 172 b ₁ is positioned over thesecond external dirt chamber end 172 b ₂.

Axially extending member 304 may help to dis-entrain dirt and debrisfrom the air flow. Alternatively or in addition, axially extendingmember 304 may help to prevent dirt and debris being re-entrained intothe air flow inside the cyclone chamber 176 (e.g. inside the dirtcollection region 172 a of the cyclone chamber 176), and/or the externaldirt chamber 172 b.

Axially extending member 304 can have any configuration suitable forproviding one or both of these functions. For example, axially extendingmember 304 may include a thin panel (e.g., a plate) which may be solid,or at least partially provided with a plurality of small apertures. Theaxially extending member 304 may also comprise a coarse or fine screen,or any other suitable high air permeability physical filter media thatcan allow the air flow to continue circulating while providing someobstruction to dirt and debris and/or providing collecting surfaces fordirt and debris.

In the exemplified embodiments, the axially extending member 304comprises a thin panel (e.g., plate) with a plurality of small apertures306. The axially extending member 304 may have any suitable number ofapertures. For example, the axially extending member 304 may include atleast 50 apertures, such as for example 50 to 5,000 apertures. Theapertures 306 may have any suitable shape or configuration. Forinstance, the apertures may be circular or round (e.g., FIG. 64), oval(e.g., FIG. 65), rectangular (e.g., FIG. 66), triangular, square, and/orany combination of the aforementioned shapes (e.g., FIG. 67). Inembodiments where the apertures are circular, the circular apertures mayhave a diameter of between 0.01″-0.5″, 0.04″-0.25″, or 0.06-0.125″.

The axially extending member 304 may have any variably configured axialheight 308, transverse width 312, and thickness 316. For example, in theexemplified embodiments, each of the axial height 308 and transversewidth 312, is far greater than its thickness 316. An advantage of thisdesign is that it provides axially extending member 304 with a largesurface area (defined by height 308 and width 312) for obstructingand/or collecting dirt and debris, and a small volume so as to occupyonly a small portion of cyclone chamber 176. For example, each of height308 and width 312 may be at least 500% (e.g. 500% to 100,000%) of thethickness 316. As shown, height 308 may be 25% or more of cyclonechamber height 320 or the dirt chamber height 402 (e.g. 25% to 75% ofcyclone chamber height 320), and width 312 may be 25% or more of cyclonechamber width 324 or the dirt chamber width (FIG. 1, e.g. 25% to 100% ofcyclone chamber width 312).

The axially extending member 304 may be connected to one or moresidewall or end wall portions of the cyclone chamber 176 and/or theexternal dirt chamber 172 b. For example, FIGS. 20-24, 32-34, 36-41exemplify an embodiment where a vertical screen 304 a is connected tothe second cyclone end wall 352 a (also referred to herein as a“vertical ‘end’ screen” 304 a, if the axially extending member that isattached to an end wall is porous). Similarly, FIGS. 96-100 exemplify anembodiment where the vertical end screen 304 a is connected to thesecond dirt chamber end wall 352 b. FIGS. 37-39 and 48-51 exemplify anembodiment wherein the axially extending member 304 is connected to asidewall. Accordingly, axially extending member 304 may be also referredto herein as a “vertical ‘side’ screen” 304 b, if the axially extendingmember that is attached to a sidewall is porous.

If the axially extending member is connected to the second cyclone endwall 352 a and/or the second dirt chamber end wall 352 b, then thevertical end screen 304 a may be removable from the cyclone chamber/dirtchamber when the second cyclone end wall 352 a and/or the second dirtchamber end wall 352 b is opened (see e.g., FIGS. 32, 40 and 41, 97-98,and 100-101). Alternately, if the vertical screen is attached to theinner surface of the cyclone sidewall 236 or dirt chamber sidewallrather than end wall 352 a and/or 352 b, the vertical side screen 304 bremains in position even when the second cyclone end 352 is openable.

As exemplified, any number of vertical side screens 304 b may beprovided inside of the cyclone chamber 176 and/or the dirt chamber. Forexample, there may be one vertical side screen (e.g., FIG. 52), twovertical side screens (e.g., FIGS. 37, 39, 41, 48, 53), three verticalside screens (e.g., FIGS. 54 and 55), four vertical side screens (e.g.,FIG. 55), or five vertical side screens (e.g., FIG. 56).

Similarly, any number of vertical end screens 304 a may be providedinside of the cyclone chamber 176 and/or the dirt chamber 172 b. Forexample, there may be one vertical end screen (e.g., FIGS. 64-71), twovertical end screens (e.g., FIG. 72), three vertical end screens (e.g.,FIG. 75), or four vertical end screens (e.g., FIG. 73). In cases wheremore than one vertical end screen 340 a is located inside of the cycloneunit 170 or external dirt chamber 172 b, the vertical end screens 340 amay be spaced from each other (e.g., FIG. 72), or otherwise, connectedor integrally molded to each other (e.g., FIGS. 73 and 75). Further,they may be the same or different.

Where more than one vertical side screen 304 b is provided, the verticalside screens may be spaced in any manner inside of the cyclone chamber176. For instance, the vertical side screens 304 b may be evenly spacedaround the entire inner circumference of the cyclone side wall 236(e.g., FIGS. 52, 54 and 55). In other cases, the vertical side screens304 b may be evenly spaced around only a portion of the innercircumference of the side wall 236 (e.g., FIGS. 56 and 57). In stillother cases, the vertical side screens 304 b may unevenly spaced aroundthe inner circumference of the sidewall. In still yet other cases,rather than being spaced around the inner circumference of the sidewall,the vertical screens may be vertically (e.g., axially) stacked, and maybe along a common plane.

Similarly, as exemplified, the vertical end screens 304 a may bepositioned at any location along the cyclone end wall 352 a and/or thedirt chamber end wall 352 b. For example, the vertical end screens 304 amay be positioned radially inwardly from the cyclone side wall 236(e.g., FIG. 73-75) or dirt chamber side wall, or otherwise, proximal thecyclone side wall 236 (see e.g., FIGS. 69-71) or dirt chamber side wall.Similarly, they may be evenly spaced apart along the end wall of theymay be provided on only a sector of the end wall.

The vertical side screens 304 b may have any suitable shape or design.For example, the vertical side screen 304 b may comprise an axiallyextending rectangular member (e.g., FIGS. 49 and 51), a trapezoidalmember (e.g., FIG. 50), or a “shark fin” shaped member (e.g., FIG. 8).In some cases, the vertical screen 304 b may have at least a portionwhich is slanted (e.g., angularly offset) (see e.g., FIG. 60). Theslanted portion may be slanted, for example, in the direction ofcyclonic air flow, or in a direction counter the direction of cycloneair flow. In still other embodiments, at least a portion of the verticalscreen 304 b may be arcuate or twisted or spiraled (e.g., FIG. 61). Thetwisted portion may have an angular twist in a range of 1°-720°,10°-360°, or 30°-270°. The twisted portion may also twist in thedirection of cyclonic air flow, or counter the direction of cyclonic airflow.

The vertical side screens 304 b may be positioned at various axialelevations within the cyclone chamber 176. For example, as exemplifiedin FIGS. 49 and 51, the vertical side screen 304 b may be offset fromthe second cyclone end 244 by an axial offset distance 482 a. The offsetdistance 482 may be, for example, 0-35 times, 0.25-25 times, 1-15 times,or 2-5 times the axial height 196 a of the cyclone inlet 196. The axialelevation of the vertical screen 304 b may also be expressed relative tothe position of the shroud 212 (see e.g., FIGS. 49 and 51). Forinstance, the vertical side screen 304 b may be axially offset from theaxially inner end 212 a of the shroud 212 by a distance 482 b of 0-40times, 0.5-25 times, 1-5 times, or 1-3 times the cyclone inlet height196 a. In embodiments where more than one vertical screen 304 b islocated inside of the chamber 176, the vertical side screens 304 b maybe positioned at the same axial elevation (see e.g., FIG. 51), or atdifferent axial elevations. Preferably, in either case, the verticalside screens 304 b are positioned at an axial elevation located belowthe cyclone air inlet 196.

The side vertical screens 304 b may radially extend into the cyclonechamber 176 by any variable distance. For instance, as exemplified inFIGS. 44 and 49, the vertical side screen 304 b may have a radialextension 312 b which spans substantially across the entire cyclonechamber 176. In other cases, as exemplified in FIGS. 52-57, eachvertical screen 304 b may only partially extend into the cyclone chamber176. In cases where more than one vertical side screen 304 b isprovided, each vertical side screens 304 b may have the same radialextension 312 b, or different radial extensions.

The vertical end screen 304 a may have any suitable shape or design.Optionally, if the axially extending member is connected to the secondcyclone end wall 352 a and/or the second dirt chamber end wall 352 b,then the vertical end screen 304 a may be configured such that when thesecond cyclone end wall 352 a, 376, 380 is opened, or when the secondexternal dirt chamber end wall 352 b is opened, the vertical end screen304 a may be concurrently movable with the openable end wall 352 a, 352b, 376, 380 to an open position (see e.g., FIGS. 32, 40 and 41, 97-98,and 100-101). In this manner, the vertical end screen 304 a may beaccessible for cleaning, and dirt and debris may be removed from thevertical end screen. In other cases, the vertical end screen 304 a maynot be concurrently moveable with an openable second cyclone or dirtchamber end wall, and may remain in-position when part or all of endwall 352, 376, 380 is opened (see e.g., FIGS. 23-24).

For example, as exemplified, if the end wall is pivotally mounted to thecyclone unit, then a portion of the vertical end screen may contact apart of the cyclone chamber sidewall and/or dirt chamber sidewall whenthe end wall is pivoted open. Accordingly, the side of the vertical endscreen that is spaced furthest from the pivot axis of an openable endwall may be recessed sufficiently radially inwardly towards the sidewith the pivot axis such that the vertical end screen may be removedfrom the chamber without contacting the sidewall of the chamber. Forexample, the vertical end screen may be thin (see, e.g., FIGS. 71a-71c )and/or positioned offset radially inwardly towards the side of the endwall with the pivot axis (see, e.g., FIGS. 69a-69c, 70a-70c, 71a-71c,72a-72c ) and/or the side of the vertical end screen furthest from theside of the chamber with the pivot axis may be shaped to avoid contactwith the chamber sidewall as the end wall is opened and the vertical endscreen is withdrawn from the chamber (see, e.g., FIGS. 63-67, 68 a-68 c,69 a-69 c, 70 a-70 c).

FIGS. 32-34 and 63-67 exemplify an embodiment wherein the side of thevertical end screen furthest from the side of the chamber with the pivotaxis is shaped to avoid contact with the chamber sidewall as the endwall is opened and the vertical end screen is withdrawn from thechamber. In these embodiments, the vertical end screen 304 a comprises a“shark fin” design. As best exemplified in FIG. 63, the screen 304 acurves downwardly between a first side 310 a (e.g., proximal the hinge356), and a distally opposed second side 310 b. The downward curvatureof the screen 304 a prevents the screen 304 a from colliding (e.g.,interfering) with the cyclone sidewall 236 (or dirt chamber side wall)when the door 352 a is being opened (see e.g., FIGS. 32 and 63).

FIGS. 64-67 exemplify an embodiment of a shark fin design wherein thebottom edge 310 c of the screen 304 a is flush with the second cycloneend wall 352 (e.g., it may be secured to the end wall). FIGS. 68a-68cand 69a-69c exemplify another embodiment of a shark fin design wherein aportion of the bottom edge 310 c—proximal the second vertical screenside 310 b—is axially offset from the end wall 352 by an offset distance314 (e.g., the shark fin design comprises a generally right-angulardesign). FIGS. 70a-70c exemplify another embodiment of a shark findesign wherein the bottom edge 310 c—proximal the first vertical screenside 310 a—is axially offset from the second cyclone end wall 352 byoffset distance 314. By spacing the vertical end screen a distance 314from the end wall by a vertical support member and to the side of theend wall closest to the hinge 356, the degree of curvature of thevertical end screen may be reduced.

It will be appreciated that in other embodiments, the vertical endscreen 304 a may not necessarily curve downwardly between the first side310 a and second side 310 b, but may otherwise have a first side 310 awhich is axially elevated relative to the second side 310 a. Forexample, the vertical screen 304 a may slant downwardly at an angle tothe vertical from an axially elevated first side 310 a to an axiallydepressed second side 310 b (e.g., it may be generally triangular inshape). This configuration may also ensure that that the vertical endscreen 304 a does not collide (e.g., interfere) with the cyclonesidewall 236 or dirt chamber side wall when the cyclone or dirt chamberend wall 352 a, 352 b is openable.

In still other embodiments, the vertical end screen 304 a may have othersuitable shapes, including a rectangular shape (e.g., FIGS. 71 to 75), aslanted trapezoidal shape (e.g., FIG. 76), a generally triangular shape(e.g., FIG. 77), or an arcuate or a curved shape (e.g., FIG. 78).

It will be appreciated that while the vertical end screen may be rigid(e.g., made of a rigid plastic and may be made of the same material asthe sidewall or the end wall), the vertical end member, and optionallythe vertical side screen, may be made of a resilient material. This mayassist opening the end wall if the vertical end screen is secured to theend wall as the vertical screen member may deflect or bend if itcontacts the chamber sidewall as the end wall is opened and the verticalscreen member is withdrawn from the chamber.

In some embodiments, a single vertical end screen 340 a may comprise twoor more separable parts. For instance, as exemplified in FIG. 16, thevertical end screen 304 a may comprise two separable parts 3681 and3682, connected to the first end wall portion 380 and second end wallportion 376, respectively, of the second cyclone end 352. Accordingly,the separable vertical screen parts 3681, 3682 may be moveable withtheir respective openable end wall portions (see e.g., FIG. 16).

The vertical end screen 304 a may be either fixably mounted to thecyclone or dirt chamber end walls 352 (see e.g., FIGS. 18, 32, 40 and41), or otherwise, moveably mounted to the cyclone or dirt chamber endwalls 352. For example, FIGS. 20 and 21 exemplify an embodiment wherethe vertical end screen 304 is moveably mounted to the second end wallportion 376. In this embodiment, the vertical end screen 304 may berotated out of the cyclone chamber when the first sidewall portion 248is removed (e.g., opened). This may facilitate cleaning of the verticalend screen 304 a.

The vertical end screen 304 a may also be permanently or removablymounted to the second cyclone chamber end wall 352 a or dirt chamber endwall 352 b. An advantage of a removably mounted screen is that thevertical end screen 304 a may be removed for cleaning or replacementwhen the second end wall 352 of the cyclone chamber or dirt chamber (orfirst cyclone sidewall portion 238) is opened.

The vertical side screen 304 b may be fixedly or moveably mounted to theinner cyclone side wall 236. For example, in various cases, the verticalside screen 304 b may be movable (e.g. pivotally, translatably, and/orremovably) connected to one or more sidewall portions. This can allowsurfaces of axially extending member 304 to move away from sidewallportion(s) 248, 252 where there is greater clearance and thereforebetter access for the user to clean those surfaces. For instance, asexemplified in FIG. 8 axially extending member 304 is pivotallyconnected to a sidewall portion 248, 252. In FIG. 8, axially extendingmember 304 is pivotally connected to the sidewall portion that remainsin position. The pivoting connection may be formed by a hinge 328 thatdefines a rotation axis 332. As shown, rotation axis 332 may extendthrough cyclone chamber 176. In the example shown, rotation axis 332 istransverse to (e.g. perpendicular to) cyclone axis 232.

As exemplified in FIGS. 5-6, in embodiments where the cyclone unit 170has an openable sidewall portion 248, the vertical side screen 304 b mayremain connected to the sidewall portion that does not have the end wall244 attached thereto. Therefore, as exemplified, axially extendingmember 304 remains connected to sidewall second portion 252 whensidewall first portion 248 is moved to the open position. This allowsdirt and debris that falls by gravity from axially extending member 304(naturally or by the user brushing axially extending member 304) to fallout of cyclone chamber 176 without interference by cyclone second endwall 244, which in this example remains connected to sidewall firstportion 248.

In still other embodiments, as exemplified in FIG. 7, rather than beingexclusively connected to either the cyclone end wall or sidewall, thevertical screen 304 may be connected to both the inner surface of thecyclone sidewall 236 and the second cyclone end 244 (see e.g., FIG. 7).In these embodiments, as exemplified in FIG. 7, the axially extendingmember 304 may remain connected to a sidewall first portion 248 (thesidewall portion with end wall 244 attached thereto) when the sidewallfirst portion 248 is openable.

Dirt Ejection Mechanism

The following is a discussion of a dirt ejection mechanism, which may bemay be used by itself or with one or more of the cyclone with anopenable sidewall, the moveable screen, the dual end walls, the medialcyclone air inlet, the exterior dirt collection chamber, and the axiallyextending member (vertically extending screen).

Optionally, a dirt ejection mechanism may be provided inside of thecyclone chamber. The dirt ejection mechanism may comprise a cleaningmember that is configurable to translate axially inside of the cyclonechamber. Preferably, the cleaning member may axially translate inside ofthe cyclone chamber using a handle assembly which is driving connectedto the cleaning member, and which is located external to the cyclonechamber. The cleaning member may be used to remove dirt which aggregateson the shroud 212 (e.g., hair which may be wrapped around shroud 212).

Referring now to FIGS. 84-95, as exemplified, the cyclone unit 170 mayinclude a cleaning member 420 located inside of the cyclone chamber 176.The cleaning member may be of various shapes. For example, cleaningmember 420 may be an annular member that extends around thecircumference of the shroud 212. In the exemplified embodiments, thecleaning member 420 comprises an annular member having a radial outersurface 420 a and a radial inner surface 420 b defining a centralopening (e.g., FIGS. 86, 85 b and 90 c). Alternately, cleaning member420 may extend only part way around the shroud 212. For example, thecleaning member 420 may comprise a semi-annular member which onlypartially surrounds and engages the shroud 212 when at an axialelevation of the shroud 212.

The radial inner surface, e.g., surface 420 a, may at least partiallyengage (i.e., contact) the outer surface of the shroud 212 when theannular member is at an axial elevation of the shroud 212 (see e.g.,FIGS. 88 and 89A). Optionally, all of the radial inner surface mayengage the shroud 212.

While the cleaning member 420 is exemplified as an annular (orsemi-annular) member, it will be appreciated that the annular shape ofthe cleaning member is only a function of the cylindrical shape anddesign of the cyclone chamber 176. Accordingly, in other cases, thecleaning member 420 may have any other suitable shape or design which issuited for the shape or design of the cyclone chamber and the shroud.For instance, the cleaning member 420 may have a square-shape, and mayhave a square-shaped central opening to surround a rectangular shapedshroud.

It will be appreciated that, if the shroud 212 is cylindrical, then theradial inner surface 420 a may contact the shroud 212 along the entirelength of the shroud 212 as the cleaning member 420 is translatedaxially along the length of the shroud 212. Accordingly, the cleaningmember may have a radial inner surface 420 a that has a constantdiameter. For example, the cleaning member 420 may be made of a rigidmaterial, such as plastic. Optionally, a resilient member, e.g., aresilient gasket may be provided to abut the shroud 212 as the cleaningmember is translated axially along the shroud 212.

Alternately, if the shroud is conical, then the radial inner surface 420a may contact the shroud 212 along only a portion of the length of theshroud 212 (e.g., the upper portion if the cyclone is orientedvertically as exemplified) as the cleaning member 420 is translatedaxially along the length of the shroud 212.

In some embodiments, the cleaning member 420 may also have an adjustablecentral opening (not shown). The adjustable opening may accommodateshrouds which have changing diameters along their axial length (e.g., atapered or frusto-conical shroud, as exemplified in FIG. 61). Forexample, the cleaning member 420 may be reconfigurable to maintaincontact with the shroud 212 as the cleaning member 420 is translatedlong at least a portion of, and optionally all of, the axial length ofthe shroud 212.

For example, the cleaning member may be made of an elastomeric member orthe cleaning member 420 may include an elastomeric member (or membrane)attached to the radial inner surface 420 b that extends radially inwardas the diameter of the shroud 212 against which it abuts is reduced. Asthe cleaning member 420 is returned to its storage position at the topof the cyclone chamber, the radial inner surface 420 a may be deformedradially outwardly by the outer wall of the shroud 212. Accordingly, theelastomeric member may increase and decrease in size so as toaccommodate the changing diameter of the shroud, and to otherwise cleanthe shroud at all points along the shroud's axial length. In othercases, the cleaning member 420 may include an adjustable mechanicalaperture which dilates and contracts to accommodate the changingdiameter of a tapered shroud.

As exemplified, the cleaning member 420 may be either detached (e.g.,separated) or attached (e.g., connected) to the shroud 212.

FIGS. 85-88 exemplify an embodiment where the cleaning member 420 isdetached from the shroud 212. In this embodiment, the shroud 212 isfixed inside of the cyclone chamber 176, and the cleaning member 420 isaxially translatable, along cyclone axis 232, inside of the cyclonechamber 176. For example, the cleaning member 420 may translate betweenan initial storage or operating position, wherein the cleaning member420 is located proximal (e.g. abuts) the first cyclone end 240 (e.g.,FIG. 86a ), to a “cleaned position” wherein the cleaning member 420 hasbeen translated by any suitable distance towards or to the secondcyclone end 244. The storage or operating positon may define the positonof the cleaning member 420 during storage of the air treatment member116 and/or operational use of the air treatment member 116. In somecases, the cleaning member 420 may travel toward the second cyclone endby only the extent of the axial length of the shroud 212 (e.g.,downwardly as exemplified in FIGS. 87 and 88). In other cases, thecleaning member 420 may translate beyond the axial length of the shroud212 (see e.g., FIG. 91). In still other cases, the second cyclone end244 may be openable, and the cleaning member 420 may axially translateto outside of the cyclone chamber 176. Similarly, as exemplified inFIGS. 111-112, in an inverted cyclone configuration, the cleaning member420 may be translated from an initial storage or operating position, inwhich the cleaning member 420 is positioned proximal (e.g., abuts) thesecond cyclone end 244 (FIG. 111B), to one or more “cleaned positions”in which the cleaning member 420 has been upwardly translated towardsthe first cyclone end 240 (FIGS. 112A-112E), and optionally, beyond anopenable first cyclone end 240 to partially or fully extended out of thecyclone chamber 176 (FIG. 112F).

An advantage of the detached annular member configuration is that thecleaning member 420 may be used for scraping dust and dirt from theexterior of the shroud 212. For example, the radial inner surface 420 bof the annular member may engage and wipe dirt or draw hair wrappedaround the shroud 212 from the exterior of the shroud 212 as the annularmember is axially translated from the first cyclone end towards thesecond cyclone end. The wiped dust and dirt may then collapse andaggregate inside of the cyclone's internal dirt chamber 172 a. In somecases, the second cyclone end wall 352 may be opened, and the cleaningmember 420 may also axially translate beyond the outside of the cyclonechamber 176. This may allow the member to be used to push debris (e.g.,hair balls) entirely outside of the cyclone chamber 176. Accordingly, itwill be appreciated that the cleaning member 420 can facilitate cleaningof the shroud 212 from dirt and debris without otherwise requiring theshroud 212 to be removed from inside of the cyclone chamber 176.

To enhance wiping and cleaning of dirt from the shroud 212, the radialinner surface 420 b of the cleaning member 420 may be variableconfigured. For example, the radial inner surface 420 b may be textured(e.g., roughly textured) to facilitate wiping of dirt from the shroud.The radial inner surface 420 b may also include one or more scrapers(e.g., prongs) to scrape dirt from the exterior of the shroud 212 (e.g.,similar to prongs 462 exemplified in FIG. 90B).

FIGS. 89A-89C exemplify another embodiment of the cleaning member 420.In this embodiment, the radial inner surface 420 b of the cleaningmember 420 is attached to the shroud 212. For example, the radial innersurface 420 b may be permanently connected (e.g., integrally molded), orotherwise detachably connected to a non-permeable portion of the shroud212. FIGS. 108 and 113 exemplify a configuration in which an annularplate 560 is attached (e.g., integrally molded, or detachably connected)around an axial outer end 212 b of shroud 212. In this configuration, asexemplified, the cleaning member 420 is attached, at one surface, to theplate 560, to connect to the shroud 212.

In this configuration, the cleaning member 420 and the shroud 212 areconcurrently moveably along all or a portion of the axial length of thecyclone chamber 176. Accordingly, as exemplified in FIGS. 89B and 89Cand FIG. 108, the cleaning member 420 and the shroud 212 may betranslated from the first cyclone end 240 (i.e., the storage oroperating position) towards, to or past an opened second cyclone end 244(i.e., a cleaned position), and optionally partially or fully extendedoutside of the cyclone chamber 176. Alternatively, as exemplified inFIGS. 113A-113C, using an inverted cyclone configuration, the cleaningmember 420 and the shroud 212 may be translated from the second cycloneend 244 (i.e., the storage or operating position) towards, to or pastthe first cyclone end 240 (i.e., a cleaned position), and optionally,partially or fully extended outside of the cyclone chamber 176. Anadvantage of this configuration is that a user may access the shroud 212from the opened first cyclone end 240 or second cyclone end 244, as thecase may be, to clean the shroud 212 from dirt and debris. Where theshroud 212 is detachably connected to cleaning member 420, the user mayfurther detach the shroud from the cleaning member 420 to more easilyclean the shroud, or otherwise, to entirely replace the shroud 212. Inother cases, rather than translating the annular member and shroudoutside of the cyclone chamber, the user may axially vibrate the annularmember and shroud inside of the cyclone chamber to debride the shroudfrom dirt and debris.

In still other embodiments, a cleaning member 420 may not be provided,and the shroud 212 may be moveable between an initial storage oroperating position, to one or more positions in which the shroud may becleaned by a user. For example, as exemplified in FIGS. 162-163, in anupright cyclone configuration, the shroud 212 may be moveable from thefirst cyclone end 240 (i.e., an initial storage or storage position)(FIG. 162B), towards, to or past an opened second cyclone end 244 (FIGS.163B and 163C). In which positions, it will be easier for a user toaccess the screen and clean the screen. Accordingly such positions maybe referred to as cleaning positions (i.e., the user may clean thescreen) or cleaned positions (i.e., the user has cleaned the screen). Itwill be appreciated that a screen moveable without a cleaning member mayalso be used in an inverted cyclone configuration.

Optionally, in embodiments in which a cleaning member 420 is provided,and irrespective of whether the cleaning member 420 is detached orattached to the shroud 212, the radial outer surface 420 a of thecleaning member 420 may also at least partially engage the inner cyclonesidewall 236. Accordingly, axial movement of the cleaning member 420 mayalso wipe (e.g., scrape) dirt from the inner surface of cyclone sidewall236. The radial outer surface 420 a may have any configuration tofacilitate wiping of dirt from the inner cyclone sidewall 236. Forexample, the radial outer surface 420 a may be flat or textured.Alternatively, or in addition, as exemplified in FIG. 90, the radialouter surface 420 a may include one or more axially extending prongs(e.g., ribs) 462 which facilitate scraping of dirt from the cyclone sidewall.

It will be appreciated that the radial inner or outer surface whichcontacts the shroud or sidewall may be made of a material that causesless friction as the cleaning member is moved (e.g., nylon). Alternatelyor in addition, the radial inner and/or outer surface may be dimensionedso as to be positioned proximate but not to contact the shroud orsidewall.

Optionally the cleaning member may be actuatable from a positionexterior to the cyclone chamber. For example, if the cleaning unitincludes a drive motor, then an actuation member may be providedexterior to the cyclone unit, e.g., on an outer wall of the cyclonechamber. Alternately, a handle assembly may be provided, at leastpartially, outside the cyclone chamber (also referred to herein as adriving assembly, or a driving linkage). The handle assembly may beoperable between a storage position (in which the assembly is retractedwhen the surface cleaning apparatus is in use), an extended position inwhich the assembly is driving connected to the cleaning member and/orshroud and the cleaning member and/or shroud are in the storage position(for when the surface cleaning apparatus is used for cleaning) and acleaned position in which the cleaning member and/or shroud have beentranslated inside the cyclone chamber to clean the shroud 212.

Driving Assembly

FIGS. 85-95 and 102-166 exemplify various configurations for a drivingassembly which drivingly engage the cleaning member 420 and/or shroud212. The driving assembly can be used to translate the cleaning memberand/or shroud between an initial storage or operating position, and oneor more cleaned positions. In the exemplified embodiments, the drivinglyassembly 436 may either extend (e.g., penetrate) through a wall of thecyclone (e.g., an end wall of sidewall 236) to physically connect withthe cleaning member and/or shroud (see for example FIGS. 85-95, 102-113,116-163), or alternately, can apply an external driving force withoutextending through a wall of the cyclone (see for example FIGS. 130-131).

A. Driving Assembly Extending Through Cyclone Sidewall

FIGS. 85-95, 102-113 and 116-163 exemplify driving assemblies whichextend, at least partially, through a wall of the cyclone to drivinglyengage the cleaning member 420 and/or shroud 212. In particular, asexemplified, the driving assembly 436 may extend through: (a) the firstcyclone end 240 (see for example FIGS. 104-110 and FIG. 161), (b) thesecond cyclone end 244 (see for example FIGS. 111-113); or (c) an axialgap 444 provided along the cyclone sidewall 236 (see for example FIGS.85-95, 102, 116-160 and 162-163).

(a) Driving Assembly Extending Through First or Second Cyclone End

FIGS. 104-113 and 161 exemplify an embodiment of the driving assembly436 which extends, at least partially, into the cyclone chamber 176,through either the first cyclone end 240 (FIGS. 104-110 and 161) or thesecond cyclone end (FIGS. 111-113), to drivingly engage the cleaningmember 420 and/or shroud 212. Optionally, as exemplified, the drivingassembly 436 extends through the cyclone end wall which has the cycloneair outlet. This enables a cleaning member to be positioned in thecyclone chamber such that, when it is desired to clean the screen, thecleaning member is positioned ready to travel axially through thecyclone chamber along the screen towards, e.g., an openable end of thecyclone chamber. Accordingly, the first cyclone end 240 when the cyclone170 is configured as an upright cyclone, and extends through the secondcyclone end 244 when cyclone 170 is configured as an inverted cyclone.

In the exemplified embodiments, and as best exemplified in FIGS. 105 and111, the driving assembly 436 comprises an elongate member 438 (alsoreferred to herein as a longitudinally extending driving rod, a drivingrod or an elongate rod). The elongate rod 438 extends, along axis 428,between a first end 438 a and an axially spaced apart second end 438 b(FIGS. 105 and 111B). As exemplified, axis 428 may be generally parallelto cyclone axis 232.

In the exemplified embodiments, the elongate rod 438 can extend throughthe first cyclone end 240 (FIG. 105), or the second cyclone end (FIG.111). In embodiments in which the elongate rod 438 extends through thefirst cyclone end 240 (FIG. 105), rod 438 can extend through an opening802 a provided at the first end 240. Alternatively, in embodiments inwhich the elongate rod 438 extends through the second cyclone end 244(FIG. 111C), rod 438 can extend through an opening 802 b provided at thesecond end 244. As exemplified in FIG. 161B, in other embodiments,elongate rod 438 can also extend directly through the cyclone air outlet204.

Optionally, as exemplified in FIGS. 104A and 111C, if rod 438 extendsthrough an opening 802 located on the cyclone end wall, a seal (e.g., asealing gasket or the like) may be associated with an opening 802 toseal the openings 802. For example, a seal 804 a may be provided on aninner surface of an end wall adjacent an opening 802 a, on an outersurface of the end wall adjacent an opening 802 a inside the opening 802a (i.e., the portion of the wall defining the opening extending throughthe end wall between the inner and outer surface of the end wall), atthe first cyclone end 240 (FIG. 104A). Similarly, a seal 804 b may beassociated with the opening 802 b, at the second cyclone end 244 (FIG.111C). An advantage of this configuration is that the seal members 804can seal the openings 802 during operation of the air treatment member116, and otherwise prevent air flow leakage through openings 802. Seals804 may be formed from any suitable material to facilitate sealing ofopenings 802, as well as to facilitate smooth axial movement of elongaterod 802 through the openings 802. For example, seals 804 can be formedfrom one or more of felt, microfiber, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE),ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE, UHMW), high-densitypolyethylene (HDPE), or other low friction and/or deformable materials.

As exemplified, irrespective of whether the rod 438 extends through thefirst or second cyclone end, the second end 438 b of the elongate member438 may be attached to the cleaning member 420. For instance, asexemplified in FIG. 105, the second end 438 b may be attached to asurface (e.g., face) of the cleaning member 420 that faces towards thefirst cyclone end 240. Alternatively, as exemplified in FIG. 111B, thesecond end 438 b of rod 438 may be attached to a surface (e.g., face) ofthe cleaning member 420, that faces towards the second cyclone end 244.

The second end 438 b, of rod 438, can attach to the cleaning member 420in any manner known in the art. For example, the second end 438 b may beintegrally formed with the cleaning member 420. Alternatively, thesecond end 438 b may be removably attached (e.g., detachably connected)to the cleaning member 420.

As exemplified in FIGS. 106A-106E and 112A-112E, the elongate rod 438may translate axially inwardly, into the cyclone chamber 176 (e.g.,along axis 428), to translate the cleaning member 420 between an initialstorage or operational position (FIG. 105 or 111B), and one or morecleaned positions (FIGS. 106A-106E or FIGS. 112A-112E). Accordingly, theelongate member 438 drives movement of the cleaning member 420, insidethe cyclone chamber 176, in a manner analogous to a plunger.

In some embodiments, as exemplified in FIGS. 108A-108C and 113A-113E,rather than drivingly engaging only the cleaning member 420, the rod 438can also drive movement of the cleaning member 420 and shroud 212,concurrently. For example, as exemplified, the shroud 212 may beattached to the cleaning member 420, and the shroud 212 can translateconcurrently with the cleaning member 420.

In still other embodiments, as exemplified in FIGS. 161A-161D a cleaningmember 420 may not be provided inside the cyclone 170, and accordingly,the elongate rod 438 may be provided to drivingly engage a moveableshroud 212. For instance, as exemplified, the elongate rod 438 may beattached to an axially inward end 212 a of shroud 212, so it maytranslate the shroud 212 between a storage position (FIG. 161B) and acleaned position (FIG. 161D). In other cases, the elongate member 438may be attached to the moveable shroud 212 at any other suitablelocation.

Optionally, as exemplified in FIGS. 104A and 111C, the elongate rod 438can include a handle 440 (e.g., a grip). The handle or grip 440 may beprovided, for example, at the first end 438 a of the elongate rod 438,and can be used to facilitate axial movement of the rod 438 by a user.

(b) Driving Assembly Extending Through an Axial Sidewall Gap

FIGS. 85-95, 102-103, 114-160 and 162-163 exemplify an alternateconfiguration for drivingly engaging a driving assembly 436 to acleaning member 420 and/or shroud 212 via a gap or opening provided in asidewall of an air treatment member, such as a cyclone.

As exemplified, an axial gap 444 is provided along the cyclone sidewall236 (FIG. 117C) to allow at least a portion of the driving assembly 436to extend into the cyclone chamber 176, and to drivingly engage thecleaning member 420 and/or shroud 212. In this manner, the drivingassembly 436 can be used to translate the cleaning member 420 and/orshroud 212 between a storage or operating position, and one or morecleaned positions.

As best exemplified by FIG. 117C, the axial gap 444 may extend, e.g.,axially between a first gap end 444 a, and an axially spaced apartsecond gap end 444 b. Optionally, the axial gap 444 extends along anaxis parallel to the cyclone axis 232. Optionally, the first gap end 444a is positioned proximate the first cyclone end 240, and the second gapend 444 b is positioned proximate the second cyclone end 244. The axialgap 444 may extend by any distance between the first gap end 444 a, andthe second gap end 444 b. For example, as exemplified in FIG. 117C, theaxial gap 444 can extend substantially between the first and secondcyclone ends 240, 244. As explained herein, an advantage of thisconfiguration is that the axial gap 444 may allow the driving assembly436 to engage, and translate the cleaning member 420 and/or shroud 212completely between the first cyclone end and the second cyclone end. Inother embodiments, the axial gap 444 may extend only partially betweenthe first and second cyclone ends (FIG. 162).

In the exemplified embodiment of FIG. 117C, the second gap end 444 b isan open end, and is otherwise flush with the second cyclone end 244.This configuration, as exemplified herein, may allow the cleaning member420 and/or shroud 212 to be removed, e.g., the driving assembly 436 maybe able to continue to slide axially and be removed from the cyclonechamber 176 along with the cleaning member and/or shroud.

The axial gap 444 may be positioned at any location around the cyclonesidewall 236 from the dirt outlet 178. For instance, as exemplified inFIG. 118C, the axial gap 444 may be provided downstream from the dirtoutlet 178, in the direction of air rotation. In the exemplifiedembodiment, the axial gap 444 is provided 180° around the cyclonesidewall downstream from the dirt outlet 178. In other embodiments, theaxial gap 444 can be provided, for example, 10°, 20°, 30°, 45°, 90° or135° degrees downstream from the dirt outlet 178.

The axial gap 444 may be sealed in any manner known in the art toprevent air leakage, through the axial gap 444, when the air treatmentmember 116 is in operational use.

FIGS. 114-117 and 120 exemplify a first configuration for sealing theaxial gap 444 wherein a sealing rib (or spline) is used to seal theaxial gap 444. In particular, as best exemplified in FIGS. 116 and 120,when it is desired to operate the air treatment member 116 the airtreatment member 116 is mounted to an upright section 120 of the surfacecleaning apparatus 100 (FIGS. 114 and 115). As exemplified, the airtreatment member 116 is oriented vertically upright, and mounted to theapparatus 100 with the axial gap 444 facing the upright section 120(FIG. 116C). As best exemplified in FIGS. 116A-116B, 117A-117B and 120B,in the mounted position, the axial gap 444 is sealed by a spline (orrib) 518, which axially extends, along a portion of the upright section120, and is receivable inside the axial gap 444 to seal the axial gap444 during operation of the air treatment member 116 (FIGS. 116C and120B). As exemplified, rib 518 can extend across the entire depth 448 ofthe axial gap 444 (FIG. 116C), or across only a portion of the depth 448of axial gap 444 (FIG. 120B). Rib 518 may have a depth such that theouter extent of rib 518 seats flush with the inner surface of thecyclone sidewall.

Preferably, the spline 518 is configured to have an axial length, andlateral width, which are substantially equal to the axial length andlateral width of axial gap 444. In this manner, spline 518 cancompletely seal the axial gap 444, and otherwise prevent air flowleakage through gap 444. In embodiments where a driving assembly 436 isprovided, and extends through gap 444 (FIG. 116B), the spline 518 canhave an axial length which is slightly less than the axial length of gap444 so as to accommodate the driving assembly 436 extending through thegap 444. For instance, as exemplified in FIG. 116B, spline 518 canextend to a position, e.g., below or slightly below the handle 440, soas to not contact the handle 440 when the air treatment member 116 ismounted to the upright section 120. Optionally, a cavity 514 isprovided, above spline 518, to receive a handle 440 when the cleaningmember 420 is in the storage position. As exemplified, a lateral surface504 may also be provided, inside the cavity 514, to rest the handle 440.A gasket or other sealing member may optionally be provided betweenspline 518 and the wall defining the gap 444.

The air treatment member 116 can be mounted in any suitable manner tothe cleaning apparatus 100, so as to secure the air treatment member 116to the cleaning apparatus 100. For instance, in the configurationexemplified in FIGS. 116B, 117B and 120C, a mounting structure isprovided to mount the air treatment member 116 to upright section 120.As exemplified, the mounting structure can comprise one or moreretention members 522, extending laterally from the upright section 120,below spline 518. Each retention member 522 can comprise a distalhook-shaped end. The hook-shaped ends engage legs 526, which depend froma bottom openable door 352 (or second cyclone end 244) of the airtreatment member 116. Optionally, each leg 526 is hollowed to receivethe hook-shaped ends. As exemplified, the retention members 522 supportthe air treatment member 116, to the upright section 120, and inengagement with spline 518. Any locking member known in the vacuumcleaner arts may be used to secure the air treatment member 116 isposition.

As best exemplified in FIGS. 119A-119F, the axial gap 444 is formedbetween a first sidewall edge 516 a and a second spaced apart sidewalledge 516 b of the cyclone sidewall 236. Each sidewall edge 516 extendslaterally between an outer surface 463 a of the cyclone sidewall 236 andan inner surface 463 b of the cyclone sidewall 236 (e.g., inside thecyclone chamber 176), to define the axial gap depth 448.

The sidewall edges 516 a, 516 b can be configured with any suitabledesign. For instance, as exemplified, in some embodiments, each sidewalledge 516 a, 516 b can be configured to be substantially straight orlinear (FIG. 119A), i.e., orthogonal to the inner and outer surface ofthe cyclone sidewall. In other cases, at least one of the sidewall edges516 may be chamfered, or beveled (e.g., angled). For example, one of thesidewall edges 516 can be chamfered or beveled (FIGS. 119B and 119E), orboth sidewall edges can be chamfered or beveled (FIGS. 119C-119D and119F). In cases where both sidewall edges are chamfered, the sidewalledges can be chamfered at the same angle (FIG. 119C), or at differentangles (FIGS. 119D and 119E). In the exemplified embodiments, the edges516 are chamfered such that the axial gap 444 is wider inside thecyclone chamber 176 than outside the cyclone chamber 176. An advantageof using a chamfered sidewall edge is that it can minimize air flowturbulence, around the axial gap 444, during operation of the cyclone170.

While the exemplified embodiments illustrate the entire sidewall edge516 as being chamfered or beveled, it will be appreciated that, in otherembodiments, only a portion of the sidewall edge can be chamfered orbeveled. For example, only a radial inner portion of the sidewall edge(e.g., proximal the cyclone chamber 176) may be chamfered, while aradial outer portion may not be chamfered (e.g., it may be straight orlinear), or vice-versa. In some cases, the portion of the sidewall edgethat is chamfered may comprise 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, or 70% of thetotal radially extending area of sidewall edge 516.

In embodiments in which an axial sidewall gap 444 is provided, a drivingassembly 436 can extend, at least partially, through the axial gap 444,to drivingly engage the cleaning member 420 and/or shroud 212. In thismanner, the driving assembly 436 is operable to translate the cleaningmember 420 and/or shroud 212 axially while the driving assembly travelsaxially along axial gap 444 between an initial storage or operatingposition, and one or more cleaned positions.

FIGS. 85-95, 102, 121-129, 132-160 and 162-163 exemplify variousconfigurations for driving assemblies which drivingly engage thecleaning member 420 and/or shroud 212 through axial gap 444. Inparticular, in the exemplified embodiments, the driving assembly 436 cancomprise: (i) an external handle (FIGS. 121-124, 126-129 and 162-163),(ii) an elongate rod (FIGS. 85-95, 102 and 125); or (iii) a handleand/or elongate rod in conjunction with an intermediate drivingmechanism (FIGS. 132-160).

(i) External Driving Handle:

FIGS. 117-125, 126-129 and 162-163 exemplify a first embodiment of adriving assembly 436, which is drivingly engaged to the cleaning member420 and/or shroud 212 through the axial gap 444 wherein the drivingassembly 436 uses a driving handle 440 whose radial inner end extendsthrough the gap to directly contact the cleaning member 420 and/orshroud 212.

As exemplified, the handle 440 comprises a linearly extending memberthat extends through the gap 444 and engages the cleaning member 420and/or shroud 212. The radial outer end of handle 440 (the portionoutside the cyclone which may be gripped by a user) may be of anyconfiguration. As exemplified, handle 440 is a linearly extending memberwhich may be relatively short (e.g., FIG. 117A) such that the radialouter end is positioned proximate the sidewall or relatively longer(e.g., FIG. 125) such that the radial outer end is positioned spacedfrom the sidewall.

The handle 440 can drivingly engage the cleaning member and/or shroud inany suitable manner. For example, FIGS. 117C and 121 exemplify anembodiment where the handle 440 is integrally formed with the cleaningmember 420. In particular, as exemplified, the handle 440 comprises alateral portion 422, of the cleaning member 420, which extends laterallyor radially through axial gap 444. In this configuration, the handle 440is in driving engagement with the cleaning member 420 (FIG. 121), or thecleaning member 420 and shroud 212 (FIG. 127) (e.g., wherein the shroud212 is attached to the cleaning member 420). In other embodiments, inwhich no cleaning member 420 is provided, handle 440 may be integrallyformed (or otherwise, drivingly engaged) to a moveable shroud 212 (FIG.162). For instance, handle 440 may be integrally formed with a plate 562that may be attached to and surround an axial outward end 212 b ofshroud 212. In other embodiments, handle 440 may not be integrallyformed with the cleaning member 420 and/or shroud 212, but may comprisea separate member portion. The separate member portion may drivinglyengage the cleaning member 420 and/or shroud 212 using any suitableattachment mechanism (e.g., a bolt or a rivet or an adhesive or thelike).

As exemplified in FIGS. 121A-121C, 123A-123C, 124A-124C and 126A-126D,in embodiments where the handle 440 is drivingly engaged to the cleaningmember 420, the handle 440 can translate along axial gap 444 totranslate the cleaning member 420 from an initial storage or operatingposition (FIGS. 121A, 124B and 126A), to one more cleaned positions(FIGS. 121B-121C, 123B-123C, 124C and 126B-126D). In other cases, wherethe shroud 212 is attached to the cleaning member 420 (e.g., integrallyformed or detachably attached), as exemplified in FIGS. 127A-127E,handle 440 can translate the cleaning member 420 and shroud 212concurrently from a storage or operating position (FIG. 127A) to one ormore cleaned positions (FIGS. 127B-127E). As exemplified in FIGS.162-163, handle 440 can also translate only a moveable shroud 212 from astorage or operating position (FIG. 162B) to one or more cleanedpositions (FIGS. 163B and 163C).

Optionally, as exemplified in FIG. 118, an external track 430 may beprovided to guide axial movement of the handle 440 along axial gap 444.For instance, as best exemplified in FIGS. 118C and 118D, the hollowtrack 430 can be provided externally and adjacent to the cyclonesidewall 236 (e.g., on the radial outer side of the cyclone sidewall236) and may surround or overlie the axial gap 444. As exemplified,track 430 can extend axially along axis 428 between a first end 432 andan axially spaced apart second end 434 (FIG. 118A).

The track 430 may have any suitable axial length (e.g., height) 424,which may be the same as the height of gap 444. For instance, asexemplified in FIG. 118B, the track 430 may have an axial height 424that is substantially equal to the axial height 320 of cyclone 170.Accordingly, the first end 432 of track 430 can be located proximal thefirst cyclone end 240, and the second track end 434 can be locatedproximal the second cyclone end 244. An advantage of this configurationis that the track 430 can guide axial motion of the driving assembly 436(e.g., handle 440) along substantially the entire axial length ofcyclone 170. In other embodiments, track 430 may extend along only aportion of the axial length of cyclone 170, or may extend beyond theaxial length of the cyclone 170. Optionally, the second track end 434may be open ended to allow handle 444 to remove the cleaning member 420and/or shroud 212 from an opened second cyclone end 240 (e.g., FIG.127E). In various cases, this may allow a user to access the cleaningmember 420 and/or shroud 212 for cleaning or replacement.

As best exemplified in FIGS. 118C-118D, track 430 comprises a firsttrack segmented 431 a, formed on one lateral side of axial gap 444, anda second track segment 431 b, formed on an opposed lateral side of axialgap 444 (radially spaced around the cyclone sidewall). In some cases,the track segments 431 may be integrally formed with the cyclonesidewall 236. Each segment forms a cavity defining a lateral portion ofthe track. An axial gap 447 is formed between the two track segments431, opposite axial gap 444, to accommodate the handle 440 (FIG. 118D).As exemplified in FIG. 118D, handle 440 can include a linearly extendingportion 445, which extends through the axial gap 447, track 430 andaxial gap 444. Preferably, as exemplified in FIG. 118D, portion 445,itself, comprises two lateral extending portions or wings 446 a, 446 b,which are receivable into cavities formed inside track segments 431 aand 432 b, respectively. Accordingly, track 430 guides axial movement ofhandle 440 by guiding the lateral portions 446.

Optionally, as exemplified in FIGS. 118C and 118D, at least a portion ofthe track 430 can be lined with a sealing member. In particular, asexemplified in FIG. 118C, a first sealing member 690 a may line theinside of first track segment 431 a, and a second sealing member 690 bmay line the inside of the second track segment 431 b. Optionally, asexemplified in FIG. 118C, the longitudinal edges of the sealing members690 a, 690 b can abut each other around the axial gap 447, to seal thegap 447.

An advantage of the sealing members 690 is that they may at leastpartially seal the axial gap 444 during operation of the air treatmentmember 116. For instance, as exemplified in FIG. 120B, when rib 518 isinserted into axial gap 444 (i.e., when the air treatment member 116 ismounted to the surface cleaning apparatus 100), seal 690 can provide anadditional layer of sealing protection, around the rib 518, to furtherprevent air flow leakage. Another advantage of the sealing member 690 isthat can reduce friction between the handle 440 and track 430 (e.g.,handle portions 446 and track segments 431) during movement of thehandle 440 across the track 430.

The sealing member 690 may be formed from any suitable material tofacilitate sealing of axial gap 444, as well as to facilitate axialmovement of handle 440. Sealing member 690 is optionally flexible andmay be made of any material used to form a gasket. For example, thesealing member 690 can be formed from one or more of felt, microfiber,Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), Ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene(UHMWPE, UHMW), High-density polyethylene (HDPE), or other low frictionand/or deformable seals.

(ii) Elongate Driving Rod:

FIGS. 85-95 and 102 exemplify an alternative configuration for a drivingassembly 436, which drivingly engages the cleaning member 420 and/orshroud 212 through axial gap 444 wherein the driving assembly 436comprises an elongate axially extending driving rod 438. Driving rod 438may be connected to the cleaning member 420 and/or shroud 212 in asimilar manner as discussed with respect to handle 440.

In the exemplified embodiment, and as best exemplified in FIG. 85, theelongate rod 438 is disposed external to the cyclone chamber 176, andextends along an axis 428, between a first end 438 a and a second end438 b. Axis 428 extends generally parallel to cyclone axis 232.

As exemplified, a portion of the elongate member 438 may drivinglyengage the cleaning member 420 through axial gap 444. For instance, asexemplified in FIG. 86, elongate rod 438 can drivingly engage thecleaning member 420 using one or more connecting members 460 (e.g.,bolts or rivets) which extends through axial gap 444. FIGS. 87 and 158exemplify another configuration, where the cleaning member 420 includesa lateral portion 422, which may be integrally formed as part of rod438, which extends through axial gap 444 to attach to the elongate rod438.

Any portion of the elongate rod 438 can drivingly engage the cleaningmember 420 and/or shroud 212. For example, FIGS. 87 and 158 exemplify anembodiment where the second end 438 b, of the elongate member 438,drivingly engages the cleaning member 420. Alternatively, in othercases, a mid-portion of the elongate member 438 can drivingly engage thecleaning member 420 (FIGS. 89-90, and 102). As discussed with respect tohandle 440, as exemplified in FIG. 87-89, the elongate member 438 can beused to translate the cleaning member 420 between an initial storage oroperating position (FIG. 87A) and one or more cleaned position (FIGS.87C and 88). In cases where the shroud 212 is attached to the cleaningmember (FIGS. 89A-89C), the elongate member 438 can also translate boththe cleaning member 420 and shroud 212, concurrently. In still othercases, where no cleaning member 420 is provided, the elongate rod 438may drivingly engage and translate a moveable shroud 212.

Optionally, as discussed with respect to handle 440 and as bestexemplified in FIG. 102, an external hollow track 430 may be providedadjacent to the cyclone sidewall 236, outside of the cyclone chamber176.

in embodiments wherein the air treatment member 116 comprises two ormore cyclonic cleaning stages 168 ₁ and 168 ₂ arranged in series (e.g.,FIG. 89), the track 430 may have an axial length 424 that is thesubstantially equal to the combined axial height of both cyclonicstages. In still other embodiments, track 430 may extend along only aportion of the axial height of the cyclone 170, or may have a height 424that is greater than the axial height 320 of the cyclone chamber. Itwill be appreciated that an advantage of providing track 430 is that itmay guide axial motion of the elongate member 438. Accordingly, a longertrack may guide axial movement of the elongate member 438 over a greaterdistance.

Optionally, the elongate member 438 can include a handle 440 (e.g., ahand grip portion) to facilitate axial movement of the elongate member438 by a user. As exemplified in FIG. 102, the handle 440 may beprovided at the first end 438 a of the elongate member 438. The handle440 may be, for example, integrally formed with the elongate member 438,or may be a separate member portion attached to the elongate member 438(e.g., via bolt or rivet 440 a, as exemplified in FIG. 94B).

While the exemplified embodiments have illustrated the driving rod 438being used to engage and translate a cleaning member 420, or a cleaningmember 420 and/or shroud 212, in other cases, the same configuration canbe sued to translate a moveable shroud 212 into one or more cleanedpositions.

(iii) Handle and/or Driving Rod in Conjunction with an IntermediateDriving Mechanism

FIG. 132-160 exemplify embodiments for a driving assembly 436 drivinglyengaged to the cleaning ember 420 and/or shroud 212 through axial gap444 wherein the driving assembly 436 comprises a handle 440 and/or adriving rod 438, which is drivingly engaged to the cleaning member 420and/or shroud 212 through axial gap 444 using an intermediary drivingmechanism. As exemplified, any suitable intermediary mechanism may beused to drivingly engage a handle or driving rod to the cleaning member420 and/or shroud 212. In the exemplified embodiments, the intermediarymechanism comprises one or more of a pulley mechanism (FIGS. 132-141), agear mechanism (FIGS. 142-149), a hydraulic or pneumatic mechanism(FIGS. 150-156) or a Bowden cable mechanism (FIGS. 157-160).

Intermediary Pulley Mechanism

FIGS. 132-141 exemplify different configurations for a pulley mechanism,which can function as an intermediary driving mechanism to drivinglyengage a handle 440 and/or elongate rod 438, to a cleaning member 420and/or shroud 212, through axial sidewall gap 444.

FIGS. 132-134 exemplify a first configuration for the pulley mechanism.In the exemplified configuration, the pulley mechanism comprises a cord(e.g., a string) 606, which drivingly connects handle 440 to cleaningmember 420. In particular, and as exemplified, the first end 606 a ofcord 606 optionally is attached to handle 440, and the second end 606 bof cord 606 is attached to cleaning member 420. As exemplified in FIG.133B, the second end 606 b of cord 606 may extend through axial gap 444to attach to cleaning member 420 (e.g., a lateral portion 422 ofcleaning member 420). Optionally, an opening 602 (e.g., aperture) isprovided at the lateral portion 422 to attach cord 606 to cleaningmember 420.

As exemplified in FIGS. 132 and 133A, a rotating pulley 610 is providedoutside the cyclone 170. In the exemplified embodiment, pulley 610 isrotatably secured to one or more longitudinal walls 620 a and 620 b,which depend laterally from cyclone sidewall 236. Alternatively, pulley610 can be secured outside of the cyclone 170 in any other suitablemanner. Preferably, pulley 610 is positioned proximal the second cycloneend 244. As exemplified, cord 606 winds around the pulley 610 to connecthandle 440 to cleaning member 420.

As exemplified in FIGS. 134A-134E, to translate the cleaning member 420to a cleaned position, handle 440 is “pulled” to allow cord 606 torotate pulley 610 in a clockwise direction. Preferably, cord 606 is kepttaut to allow cord 606 to rotate the pulley 610. For example, a frictiongrip, between a taut cord 606 and the pulley 610, may cause cord 606 torotate pulley 610 as cord 606 is pulled. While cord 606 can be pulled inany direction, in the exemplified embodiment, cord 606 is pulled axiallyupwardly, along translation axis 428. As exemplified in FIGS. 134A-134E,as the cord 606 is pulled, the second end of cord 606 b applies an axialdownward force to cleaning member 420 (e.g., provided the cyclone 170 isin an upright position wherein the first cyclone end 240 is positionedover the second cyclone end 244). This, in turn, translates the cleaningmember 420 from a storage or operating position (FIG. 133A) to one ormore cleaned positions (FIGS. 134A-134E).

In some cases, as exemplified in FIG. 133B, a lateral surface 622 maydepend from the cyclone sidewall 236, and can be used as a restingsurface for the handle 440. Preferably, the lateral resting surface 622is located proximal the first cyclone end 240, and is used to resthandle 440 when cleaning member 420 is in the storage position. Asexemplified, lateral surface 622 may include an opening 624 to receivethe cord 606.

FIGS. 135-136 exemplify an alternative configuration for an intermediarypulley mechanism wherein the pulley mechanism comprises two rotatingpulleys 610 a and 610 b, positioned outside the cyclone 170. Therotating pulleys 610 a, 610 b may be rotatably secured to one or moredepending walls 620 a, 620 b. Preferably, as exemplified, the firstpulley 610 a is positioned proximal the first cyclone end 240, while thesecond pulley 610 b is positioned proximal the second cyclone end 244.Optionally, pulleys 610 a, 610 b are aligned along a common axis (e.g.,translation axis 428) when cyclone 170 is in the upright position (FIG.135B). As best exemplified in FIG. 135B, cord 606 winds around the firstpulley 610 a, before winding around the second pulley 610 b. In theexemplified configuration, handle 440 is positioned proximal the secondcyclone end 244.

As exemplified in FIG. 136, with the first cyclone end 240 positionedover the second cyclone end 244, handle 440 is pulled axiallydownwardly, along translation axis 428, to pull cord 606. As cord 606 ispulled, cord 606 rotates pulleys 610 a, 610 b in opposing directions.For example, cord 606 rotates pulley 610 a in a counter-clockwisedirection, while rotating pulley 610 b in a clockwise direction. As thecord 606 is pulled, the cord 606 applies an axial downward force to thecleaning member 420 and translates the cleaning member 420 from aninitial storage or operating position (FIG. 135B), to one or morecleaned position (FIGS. 136A-136E).

FIGS. 137-139 exemplify still another configuration for an intermediarypulley mechanism using a plurality of pulleys. Similar to theconfiguration exemplified in FIGS. 135-136, the configuration in FIGS.137-139 also includes two pulleys 610 a, 610 b, spaced apart along axis428. In the exemplified configuration, however, cord 606 first windsaround pulley 610 b, which is positioned proximal the second cyclone end244, before winding around pulley 610 a, which is positioned proximalthe first cyclone end 240. As exemplified, pulleys 610 may be rotatablymounted, at one end, to the cyclone sidewall 236 (FIGS. 137A and 137C).

As best exemplified in FIG. 137B, a portion of cord 606, disposedbetween pulleys 610 a and 610 b, can be attached, e.g., to the cleaningmember 420 (e.g., lateral portion 422 of cleaning member 420, viaaperture 602).

Optionally, as exemplified, an elongate member rod is provided, whichextends along axis 428, between a first end 438 a and second end 438 b.Cord 606 may attach, at a first end 606 a, to the second end 438 b ofelongate rod 438. Optionally, the first end 438 a of elongate rod 438includes a handle 440. In various cases, the elongate rod 438 can reducethe length of cord 606 required to drive the pulley mechanism.

As exemplified in FIGS. 138-139, with the first cyclone end 240positioned over the second cyclone end 244, the cleaning member 420 istranslated by pulling handle 440 and/or elongate rod 438, axiallyupwardly, along translation axis 428 (or in any other suitabledirection). This, in turn, causes pulleys 610 to rotate. For example,pulley 610 a may rotate in a counter-clockwise direction, while pulley610 b may rotate in a clockwise direction. As the cord 606 is pulled, anaxial force is applied to cleaning member 420 to translate the cleaningmember 420 between a storage or operating position (FIG. 137C) and oneor more cleaned positions (FIGS. 138B and 139B).

As exemplified in FIG. 138, a biasing mechanism may be provided toreturn the cleaning member 420 to the storage position after cleaning.In the exemplified embodiment, the biasing mechanism comprises a biasedspring 587. The biasing spring 587, is attached at a first end 587 a tothe second end 606 b of cord 606. A second end 587 b of the biasingspring 587 may be secured, for example, to the cyclone sidewall 236. Asexemplified in FIG. 137B, the biased spring 137 b is biased to acompressed position when the cleaning member 420 is in the storageposition. As the cleaning member 420 is translated to a cleaned position(FIGS. 138A and 139A), spring 587 is extended. Once handle 440 and/orelongate member 438 is released, the spring 587 can retract to returnthe cleaning member 420 back into the storage position.

It will be appreciated that, while an elongate rod 438 has only beenprovided in the configuration exemplified in FIG. 138-139, the elongatemember 438 can also be provided with any of the configurationspreviously exemplified in FIGS. 132-136. For example, in the previouslyexemplified configurations, rather than attaching a handle 440 to thefirst end of cord 606, the first end of cord 606 may attach to anelongate rod 438 as exemplified in FIGS. 137-139.

FIGS. 140-141 exemplify still yet another configuration for anintermediary pulley mechanism which uses a continuous loop belt system.As exemplified, handle 440 is attached to a flexible belt 628. Flexiblebelt 628 loops (e.g., winds) around, e.g., a first pulley 610 a and asecond pulley 610 b. Preferably, as exemplified, the first pulley 610 ais located proximal the first cyclone end 240 and the second pulley 610b is located proximal the second cyclone end 244. Optionally, thepulleys 610 a, 610 b are aligned along a common axis (e.g., translationaxis 428). As exemplified, the pulleys 610 may be supported to one ormore depending longitudinal walls 620 a, 620 b.

In the exemplified embodiment, a portion of belt 628 is attached to aportion of cleaning member 420 (e.g., lateral portion 422), throughaxial gap 444 (FIG. 140B). In some embodiments, belt 628 may be a single“continuous” member, which extends “through” each of the handle 440 andthe cleaning member 420. In other embodiments, belt 628 can comprise oneor more “discontinuous” members. For instance, as exemplified, belt 628may comprise a first belt segment 628 a, connecting the cleaning member420 to handle 440, and a second belt segment 628 b, connecting thehandle 440 to the cleaning member 420 (FIG. 140B).

As best exemplified in FIG. 140B, when the cleaning member 420 is in thestorage or operating position, handle 440 is disposed proximal thesecond pulley 610 b (e.g., proximal the second cyclone end 244). Asexemplified in FIGS. 141A-141E, when the cyclone is in the uprightposition (e.g., the first cyclone end 240 is positioned over the secondcyclone end 244), handle 440 is translated axially upwardly, alongtranslation axis 428. This, in turn, causes belt 628 to engage androtate pulleys 610 a, 610 b. In the exemplified configuration, pulleys610 are rotated in the same direction (e.g., clockwise) by belt 628. Asthe belt 628 is rotated, the belt 628 translates the cleaning member 420from a storage or operating position (FIG. 140B), to one or more cleanedpositions (FIGS. 141A-141E). To return the cleaning members 420 back tothe storage position, handle 440 is translated in the reverse direction,and axially downwardly.

While the exemplified embodiments illustrate the pulley mechanisms asdrivingly engaging only the cleaning member 420, it will appreciatedthat the same pulley mechanisms can also drivingly engage the cleaningmember 420 and shroud 212, concurrently (i.e., in cases where the shroud212 is attached to the cleaning member 420), or alternatively, only amoveable shroud 212.

Further, while the exemplified embodiments illustrate the pulleymechanism as having either a single pulley (FIGS. 132-134), or twopulleys (FIGS. 135-141), in other embodiments, any number of pulleys maybe provided. For example, cord 606 or belt 628 may wind around three,four or five pulleys.

Still further, while the exemplified embodiments illustrate a “pulley”in conjunction with a “cord” or “belt”, in other embodiments, anysuitable pulley-type mechanism can be used to drivingly engage thecleaning member 420 and/or shroud 212. For example, a chain and sprocketmechanism can be used in place of the cord or belt and pulley system. Inparticular, an advantage of the chain and sprocket mechanism is thatthere is reduced “slip” between the chain and the sprocket, therebyallowing the chain 606 to more fully engage and rotate the sprocket 610.

In still yet other embodiments, members 610 may not comprise rotatingpulley members (e.g., rotating pulleys or sprockets), but may comprisestationary members. For example, members 610 can comprise stationaryknobs, and cord 606 or belt 628 can loop around the knobs 610. In thisconfiguration, the cord or belt simply “slides” over the surface of theknob 610 and, in turn, translates the cleaning member 420 and/or shroud212 from the storage position to one or more cleaned position.Optionally, in this configuration, the cord or belt, and knob 610 areformed from low-friction material to facilitate “slipping” of thesurfaces over each other.

Intermediary Gear Mechanism

FIGS. 142-149 exemplify still further embodiments for an intermediarymechanism which can drivingly engage a handle 440 and/or elongate rod438 to a cleaning member 420 and/or shroud 212, through an axialsidewall gap 444 wherein the intermediary mechanism comprises anintermediary gear mechanism.

FIGS. 142-143 exemplify a first configuration for the intermediary gearmechanism. As exemplified, an elongate rod 438 is provided, and extendsbetween a first end 438 a and an axially opposed second end 438 b, alongaxis 428. The second end 438 b attaches to the cleaning member 420(e.g., a lateral portion 422 of the cleaning member 420, which extendsthrough axial gap 444). In other cases, any other portion of theelongate member 438 may attach to the cleaning member 420. Optionally, ahandle 440 is provided at the first end 438 a of the elongate member438. Optionally, elongate rod may concurrently move the shroud and thecleaning member or only the shroud.

As exemplified in FIGS. 142A and 142C, elongate member 438 includeslaterally opposed faces 642 a, 642 b, which are, at least partially,axially lined with “teeth”. The axial teeth are configured to mate(i.e., in threaded engagement) with teeth disposed on rotating gears 632a, 632 b. As exemplified, gears 632 are provided outside cyclone 170,and on either side of rod 438. In the exemplified embodiment, gears 632a, 632 b, are provided proximal the first cyclone end 240. In othercases, gears 632 may be provided at any other location along, or beyond,the axial length of cyclone 170. As exemplified, gears 632 may berotationally supported on cyclone sidewall 236. Preferably, in theupright cyclone position (e.g., the first cyclone end 240 is positionedover the second cyclone end 244), gears 632 are aligned along the samehorizontal axis.

As exemplified in FIGS. 143A-143E, the elongate rod 438 is translated,along axis 428, toward the second cyclone end 244, to translate thecleaning member 420 into a cleaned position. As the elongate rod 438 istranslated, teeth disposed along lateral faces 642 of the elongate rod438 engage gears 632. This, in turn, causes gears 632 to rotate inopposing directions. In the exemplified embodiment, gear 632 a rotatesin a clockwise direction, while gear 632 b rotates in acounter-clockwise direction (FIG. 142C).

As the elongate member 438 is translated toward the second cyclone end244, the elongate member 438 axially translates the cleaning member 420from the storage or operating position (FIG. 142B), to one or morecleaned positions (FIGS. 143A-143D). To return the cleaning member 420to the storage or operating position, the elongate rod 438 istranslated, in reverse, axially away from the second cyclone end 244.

It will be appreciated that an advantage of the exemplified gearconfiguration is that the friction fit between teeth disposed on rod 438and gears 632 allows the cleaning member 420 to be secured at variousintermediate cleaned positions. In other words, the friction fit betweenteeth on rod 438 and gears 632 may prevent the cleaning member 420 fromcollapsing, under the influence of gravity, inside of the cyclonechamber 176, at different cleaned positions.

While two gears 632 have been exemplified in FIGS. 142-143, it will beappreciated that any number of gears may be provided to engage teethalong the elongate rod 438 (e.g., one, two, three, or four gears). Thegears 632 may be positioned at any location along, or beyond, the axiallength of the cyclone 170.

FIGS. 144-147 exemplify another configuration for an intermediate gearmechanism. In the exemplified configuration, two elongate members 4381,4382 are provided, each extending axially between a respective first end438 a ₁, 438 a ₂ and a respective second end 438 b ₁, 438 b ₂, alongaxis 428. The second end 438 b ₂, of the second elongate member 4382, isattached to a lateral portion 422 of cleaning member 420, extendingthrough axial gap 444 (FIGS. 144 and 145A). Alternatively, any otherportion of the second elongate member 4382 may attach to the cleaningmember 420. Optionally, the first end 438 a ₁, of elongate member 438,include a grip handle 440.

As exemplified, each elongate member 438 includes a respective lateralface 6421 and 6422, which is axially lined with teeth. A rotating gear632 is disposed between the elongate members 438, and includes teethwhich are in threaded engagement with teeth disposed on each elongatemember 438. As exemplified, gear 632 may be supported to cyclonesidewall 236, and may be positioned proximal the first cyclone end 240.While only a single gear is exemplified, in other cases, any number ofgears may be provided and positioned between the first and secondelongate members 438. The gears may also be positioned at any pointalong, or beyond, the axial length of cyclone 170.

As exemplified, in the storage or operating position (FIG. 145B), thefirst end 438 a ₁, of the first elongate member 4381, is located moreproximal to the first cyclone end 240, than the first end 438 a ₂ of thesecond elongate member 4382.

As exemplified in FIGS. 146-147, to translate the cleaning member 420 toa cleaned position (e.g., with the cyclone in the upright position), thefirst elongate member 4381 is pulled axially upwardly. This, in turn,causes teeth disposed on the lateral face 6421 of the first elongatemember 4381 to engage and rotate gear 632 (i.e., translating the linearaxial movement of the elongate member, into rotational gear movement).As the gear 632 rotates, threaded engagement between gear 632 and teethon the second elongate member 4382 causes the second elongate member4382 to translate axially downwardly (i.e., translating rotational gearmovement back into linear axial movement of the elongate member).Accordingly, the second elongate member 4382 is translated downwardly,and translates the cleaning member 420 from the storage or operatingposition (FIG. 145B) to one or more cleaned position (FIGS. 146B and147B).

As exemplified in FIG. 147A, in the cleaned position, the first end 438a ₁ of the elongate member is located more distally from the firstcyclone end 240 than the first end 438 a ₂ of the second elongatemember.

To return the cleaning member 420 back into the storage position, thefirst elongate member 4381 may be translated, in reverse, axiallydownwardly.

While the exemplified configurations illustrate the gear mechanism asdriving the cleaning member 420 through an axial sidewall gap 444, inother embodiments, the gear mechanism can also drivingly engage thecleaning member 420 through an opening in the first or second cycloneends, such as in a similar as previously discussed with respect to thedriving assembly extending through first or second cyclone end. FIGS.148-149 exemplify a configuration for an intermediate gear mechanismwhich drivingly engages the cleaning member 420 through the firstcyclone end.

As best exemplified in FIG. 148, in this configuration, the elongate rod438 extends into the cyclone chamber 176, through the cyclone air outlet204. Optionally, as exemplified, shroud 212 can extend along the axiallength of cyclone 170. As exemplified, when cleaning member 420 is inthe storage position (FIG. 148B), the second end 438 b of rod 438engages (e.g., abuts) an axially inward end 212 a of shroud 212. Inother cases, rod 438 can be shorter than shroud 212, and may not abutthe inward end 212 a of shroud 212. In still other cases, shroud 212 mayhave a shorter length and may not extend along the axial length ofcyclone 170 (e.g., it may engage the shroud proximate end 212 b odshroud 212).

As exemplified, elongate rod 438 includes lateral faces 642 a, 642 b.Each lateral face 642 is at least partially axially lined with teeth.Teeth on lateral faces 642 are in threaded engagement with teeth onrotating gears 632 a, 632 b. In the exemplified embodiment, gears 632are rotationally mounted inside cyclone 170. For example, gears 632 arerotationally mounted inside shroud 212 (e.g., a non-permeable portion ofshroud 212). In the upright cyclone position (e.g., the first cycloneend 240 is positioned over the second cyclone end 244), gears 632 arepreferably aligned along a common horizontal axis. In other cases, gears632 may be laterally offset, i.e., along different horizontal axis, ormay be positioned at any other location along the axial length ofcyclone 170. It will be appreciate that, in other embodiments, the gearsmay be located elsewhere.

As exemplified, a hollowed stem 648 is attached, at one end, to thecleaning member 420. Hollowed stem 648 extends axially upwardly from thefirst cyclone end 240, along cyclone axis 232. In the exemplifiedembodiment, hollowed stem 648 at least partially surrounds the elongaterod 438. As exemplified in FIG. 148C, the inner surface of hollowed stem648, is axially lined with teeth 652 a, 652 b. Teeth 652 engage an outeredge of gears 632 a, 632 b, opposite the edge engaging lateral faces 642of elongate rod 438. Accordingly, each gear 632 is positioned betweenthe elongate rod 438, and an inner surface of the hollowed stem 648lined with teeth. It will be appreciate that, in other embodiments, ahollowed stem 648 may not be provided. In such a case, the elongate rodmay be connected to the cleaning member via an axial gap in the shroud.

As exemplified in FIGS. 149A-149E, in the upright cyclone position, thecleaning member 420 is translated into a cleaned position by pulling theelongate rod 438, axially upwardly. This, in turn, causes teeth,disposed on the elongate rod 438 (i.e., lateral faces 642), to engagegears 632, and to cause rotation of gears 632. For example, gear 632 ais rotated in a counter-clockwise direction, while gear 632 b is rotatedin a clockwise direction. Gears 632, in turn, engage teeth 652, liningthe inner surface of hollow stem 648. As gears 632 rotate, and engageteeth 652 along hollow stem 648, the gears' rotational motion istranslated into linear motion of the hollow stem 648. In particular, thehollow stems 648 is translated axially downwardly, into the cyclonechamber 176, such as to move the cleaning member 420 from a storage oroperating position (FIG. 148B), to one or more cleaned positions (FIGS.149A-149E).

To return the cleaning member 420 back into the storage position, theelongate rod 438 can be translated, in reverse, axially downwardly.This, in turn, reverses rotation of gears 632, and accordingly,translates the hollow stem 648 and cleaning member 420 back into thestorage position.

It will be appreciated that while the configuration exemplified in FIGS.148-149 has been exemplified with an upright cyclone, the sameconfiguration can be applied to an inverted cyclone, where the airoutlet 204 is provided at the second cyclone end 244.

Further, while the illustrated embodiments exemplify the gear system astranslating only the cleaning member 420, in other cases, the gearsystem can translate the cleaning member 420 and shroud 212,concurrently. For example, this can occur where the shroud 212 isattached to the cleaning member 420. In other cases, where a cleaningmember 420 is not provided, the gear system can drivingly engage only amoveable shroud 212.

Further, in other embodiments, the elongate rod 438 may extend throughan opening in the end wall of the cyclone chamber.

Intermediary Pneumatic or Hydraulic Mechanism

FIGS. 150-156 exemplify still another embodiment for an intermediarymechanism which drivingly engages a handle 440 and/or elongate rod 438to a cleaning member 420 and/or shroud 212 wherein the intermediarymechanism comprises a pneumatic or hydraulic mechanism.

FIGS. 150-151 exemplify a first configuration for an upright hydraulicor pneumatic mechanism in which the hydraulic or pneumatic systemincludes a first elongate member 4381 and a second elongate member 4382.The first elongate member 4381 is slidably received inside of a firstcylinder 6581. The second elongate member 4382 is slidably receivedinside of a second cylinder 6582. In the exemplified embodiment, theelongate members 438 and cylinders 658 are configured with a circularcross-section. Preferably, the ‘cross-sectional diameter’ of theelongate members 438 is substantially equal to the ‘cross-sectionaldiameter’ of cylinders 658, to provide for a “sealed” sliding engagementbetween the two components. In other embodiments, the elongate members438 and cylinders 658 may have any other suitable cross-sectional design(e.g., a rectangular cross-section, or a triangular cross-section, etc.)

As exemplified in FIG. 150, each cylinder 658 axially extends between arespective first end 658 a ₁, 658 a ₂, and an axially spaced apartsecond end 658 b ₁, 658 b ₂. The first elongate member 4381 is slidablyreceived through an opening at the first end 658 a ₁, of the firstcylinder 6581. Similarly, the second elongate member 4382 is slidablyreceived through an opening at the second end 658 b ₂ of the secondcylinder 6582. As exemplified, the second end 438 b ₂, of the secondelongate member 4382, is drivingly engaged to the cleaning member 420(e.g., portion 422, which may laterally extend from cleaning member 420through axial sidewall gap 444) (FIG. 151A).

As exemplified in FIG. 151, the first cylinder 6581 is in fluidcommunication with the second cylinder 6582 through an intermediate tube6583. Tube 6583 connects an opening, provided at the second end 658 b ₁of the first cylinder 6581, to an opening provided at the first end 658a ₂ of the second cylinder 6582. The internal volume of cylinders 6581,6582 and tube 6583 is filled with a compressible fluid (e.g., ahydraulic system) or a pressurized gas medium (e.g., a pneumaticsystem).

Optionally, the second end 658 b ₂ of the second cylinder 6582 issecured to a lateral portion 622, which depends from the cyclonesidewall 236 (FIG. 150), proximal the first cyclone end 240.

In the storage position (FIG. 151A), the first elongate member 4381 atleast partially extends out of the first cylinder 6581, while the secondelongate member 4382 is at least partially received inside of the secondcylinder 6582.

As exemplified in FIGS. 151B-151C, in the upright cyclone position, thecleaning member 420 is translated into the cleaned position bycompressing (e.g., sliding axially inwardly) the first elongate member4381 into the first cylinder 6581. This, in turn, applies a positivecompressive pressure to the fluid or gas medium inside the connectedsystem (i.e., cylinders and tube system 658). The positive compressivepressure, in turn, forces (i.e., pushes) the second elongate member4382, axially outwardly of the second cylinder 6582 (FIGS. 151B and151C). In this manner, the second elongate member 4382 axiallytranslates the cleaning member 420 from the initial storage or operatingposition (FIG. 151A), to one or more cleaned positions (FIGS. 151C and151C).

When it is desired to return the cleaning member 420 back to the storageposition, the first elongate member 4381 is reversed, and extended(i.e., pulled) out of the first cylinder 4381. This, in turn, results ina build-up of negative pressure inside of the connected system, anddrives the second elongate member 4382 to retract into the secondcylinder 6582 (e.g., to translate the cleaning member 420 back into thestorage position).

FIGS. 152-153 exemplify an alternative configuration for an intermediarypneumatic or hydraulic mechanism which operates inversely to theconfiguration exemplified in FIGS. 150-151. In particular, in thestorage position (FIG. 153A), the first elongate member 4381 issubstantially received inside of the first cylinder 6581. Further, thesecond elongate member 4382 is substantially extended out of the secondcylinder 6582. In the exemplified embodiment, the second cylinder 6582is secured, at one end, to a depending lateral wall 622 b, locatedproximal the second cyclone end 244 (FIG. 152).

As exemplified in FIGS. 153B-153C, in the upright cyclone position, thecleaning member 420 is translated by extending (i.e., pulling) the firstelongate member 4381 out of the first cylinder 6581. This, in turn,generates a build-up of negative pressure inside the connected system(i.e., cylinders and tube 658). The build-up of negative pressure drawsthe second elongate rod 4382 into the second cylinder 6582. As thesecond elongate rod 4382 is drawn into cylinder 6582, the secondelongate rod 4382 translates the cleaning member 420 from the storage oroperating position (FIG. 153A) to one or more cleaned positions (FIGS.153B and 153C).

To return the cleaning member 420 back into the storage position, thefirst elongate member 4381 is inserted (i.e., slidably translated) intothe first cylinder 6581. This generates a build-up of positive pressurewhich drives the second elongate member 4382 to slide out of the secondcylinder 6582, and to translate the cleaning member 420 back into thestorage position.

While the exemplified configurations (FIG. 150-153) illustrate apneumatic or hydraulic system drivingly engaging a cleaning member 420,it will be appreciated that, in other embodiments, the pneumatic orhydraulic system can also drivingly engage both the cleaning member 420and shroud 212 (e.g., in cases where shroud 212 is attached to cleaningmember 420). Alternatively, where no cleaning member 420 is provided,the pneumatic or hydraulic system can drivingly engage only a moveableshroud 212.

FIGS. 154-156 exemplify a configuration for an intermediary pneumatic orhydraulic mechanism which drivingly engages only a moveable shroud 212.In the exemplified configuration, a single cylinder 6581 is connected,at one end 658 b ₁, to a connecting tube 6583 (FIGS. 154A and 154B).Connecting tube 6583 is connected, at an opposite end, to cyclone 170,and is in fluid communication with a passage 650, located inside thecyclone 170. As exemplified, passage 650 may be located along the firstcyclone end 240, above the shroud 212.

As exemplified in FIG. 154C, passage 650 feeds into a first pipe member656 which extends, at least part way, inside of shroud 212, when shroud212 is in the storage position. In the storage position, a second pipemember 657 is nested inside the first pipe member 656. Each of the firstand second pipe members 656, 657 extend, along axis 232, between arespective first end 656 a, 657 a and a respective second end 656 b, 657b. The first end 656 a, of pipe member 656, is in fluid communicationwith passage 650. The second end 657 b, of second pipe member 657, isattached to an axial inner end 212 a of shroud 212.

As exemplified in FIGS. 154B and 154C, in the storage position, thesecond pipe member 657 is nested, at least partially, within the firstpipe member 656. Further, the elongate member 438 is substantiallyremoved from the cylinder 6581.

As exemplified in FIGS. 155-156, when the cyclone 170 is in the uprightposition, the moveable shroud 212 is translated into a cleaned positionby compressing (e.g., sliding) the elongate member 438, into cylinder6581, to generate positive pressure inside the connected system. Thepositive pressure causes pressurized gas or liquid to flow from tube6583 into cyclone passage 650. From the cyclone passage 650, thepressurized medium flows into the second pipe member 657, and forces thesecond pipe member 657 to telescope out of the first pipe member 656. Inthis manner, the shroud 212 is axially translated from the storageposition (FIG. 154B), to one or more cleaned positions (FIGS. 155-156).In some cases, a friction fit engagement between the outer surface ofthe second pipe member 657, and the inside surface of the first pipemember 656, prevents the second pipe member 657 from collapsing (e.g.,sliding) out of the first pipe member 656. In other cases, any otherretention structure or mechanism can be used to secure the second pipemember 657 inside the first pipe member 656 in a telescopingarrangement, as, for example, explained in further detail herein withreference to FIG. 103.

It will be appreciated that while the exemplified pneumatic or hydraulicdesigns are shown as drivingly engaged to the cleaning member 420 and/orshroud 212 through an axial sidewall gap 444, in other cases, theexemplified pneumatic or hydraulic systems can also be used where theelongate member 438 extends, for example, through the first cyclone end240 or second cyclone end 244, as previously exemplified. For example,the second elongate member 4382, exemplified in FIGS. 150-153, canextend through an opening 802 in the first cyclone end (e.g., FIGS.150-151), or the second cyclone end (e.g., FIGS. 152-153), to drivinglyengage the cleaning member 420 and/or shroud 212.

Intermediary Bowden Cable Mechanism

FIGS. 157-160 exemplify another embodiments for an intermediarymechanism, which drivingly engaging a handle 440 and/or elongate member438 to a cleaning member 420 and/or shroud 212 wherein the intermediarymechanism comprises a Bowden cable system.

FIGS. 157-158 exemplify a first configuration for the Bowden cablesystem. As exemplified, the system includes a flexible elongate member(or flexible cable) 438, which extends between a first end 438 a and asecond end 438 b. The second end 438 b of may attach to the cleaningmember 420 (e.g., to a lateral portion 422 of cleaning member 420, whichmay extend through axial gap 444). In other cases, any other portion ofthe flexible member 438 may attach to the cleaning member 420.

As exemplified, the flexible member 438 travels, at least partially,through a hollow flexible sleeve 626. The sleeve 626 may have a firstopen end 626 a, to receive the flexible member 438, and a second openend 626 b, through which the flexible member 438 exits the sleeve 626.In the exemplified embodiment, the second end 626 b is secured to adepending lateral portion 622 a of cyclone sidewall 236.

In the exemplified configuration, and as best exemplified in FIGS.158A-158E, mechanical force, or energy, is translated to the cleaningmember 420 by movement of the flexible member 438 relative to the outersleeve 626. In particular, this allows translation of the cleaningmember from a storage or operating position (FIG. 158A) to one or morecleaned positions (FIGS. 158B-158E).

Optionally, a portion of the flexible member 438 may comprise a springmember. For example, as exemplified in FIG. 157B, the flexible member438 may comprise at least two solid portions 604 a and 604 c, locatedproximal the first and second ends 438 a, 438 b, respectively. Further,a middle portion 604 b, disposed between portions 604 a and 604 c, maycomprise a spring member.

Optionally, a spring may be provided between handle 440 and sleeve end262 a to bias the handle 440 to the operating position shown in FIG.157B.

FIGS. 159-160 exemplify another configuration of the Bowden cable designwhich does not include an outer sleeve 626, and only includes theflexible member 438.

While the exemplified embodiments illustrate the Bowden cable design asdrivingly engaging only the cleaning member 420, the Bowden cable designcan also be used to translate the cleaning member 420 and shroud 212,concurrently, or otherwise to translate only a moveable shroud 212.

Further, it will be appreciated that while the exemplified Bowden cabledesign is exemplified as being drivingly engaged to the cleaning member420 and/or shroud 212 through an axial sidewall gap 444, the Bowdencable design can also be used where the elongate member 438 extendsthrough the first cyclone end 240 or second cyclone end 244, aspreviously exemplified. For example, the elongate member 438 can extendthrough an opening 802 in the first or second cyclone end to drivinglyengage the cleaning member 420 and/or shroud 212.

B. Driving Assembly Engaging Cleaning Member and/or Shroud withoutExtending Through Cyclone Sidewall

As exemplified in FIGS. 130-131, a driving assembly 436 may drivinglyengage the cleaning member 420 and/or shroud 212 without extending(e.g., penetrating) through the cyclone sidewall 236.

In the exemplified configuration, the driving assembly 436 comprises anexternal handle 440 (e.g., disposed outside cyclone 170), whichdrivingly engages the cleaning member 420 through magnetic coupling. Asexemplified, a magnet pair is provided which includes a first magnet 584a, disposed, e.g., on an inner surface 441 a of handle 440, facing thecleaning member 420. A second magnet 584 b is disposed, e.g., on aradial outer surface 420 a of the cleaning member 420 and directedtowards the handle 440. The magnets 584 a, 584 b are configured withopposite polarities to induce a magnetic attractive coupling force. Whenthe cyclone is in the upright position (e.g., the first cyclone end 240is positioned over the second cyclone end 244), magnets 584 a and 584 bare aligned along a common vertical and horizontal axis. As exemplifiedin FIGS. 131A-131D, the magnetic coupling between magnets 584 allows theexternal handle 440 to axially translate cleaning member 420 between aninitial storage or operating position (FIG. 130) and one or more cleanedpositions (FIGS. 131A-131D).

While the exemplified embodiment illustrates a portion of handle 440extending through sidewall gap 444, it will be appreciated that theexemplified magnetic coupling design can operate without any gap oropening in the cyclone sidewall 236. This is because coupling betweenmagnets 584 can operate through the cyclone sidewall. An advantage ofthis configuration is that it avoids the need to seal an opening or gapin the cyclone sidewall 236, during operation of the air treatmentmember 116.

Additionally, while the exemplified embodiments illustrate a singlemagnet pair coupling handle 440 to cleaning member 420, in otherembodiments, any number of magnets (or magnet pairs) can be provided onhandle 440 or cleaning member 420, to generate a magnet coupling force.

Still further, it will be appreciated that magnetic coupling may beachieved without disposing a magnet on each of the handle 440 andcleaning member 420. For example, magnetic coupling can still beachieved by disposing one magnet on handle 440 or cleaning member 420,and disposing a magnetically attractable material (e.g., a ferromagneticmaterial) on the opposing surface. For example, the cleaning membercould be made of such a material.

While the exemplified embodiment illustrate the handle 440 as drivinglyengaging only the cleaning member 420, in other cases, the handle 440may drivingly engage both the cleaning member 420 and shroud 212 (e.g.,where the shroud 212 is attached to the cleaning member 420).Alternative, where no cleaning member 420 is provided, the handle 440may drivingly engage only the shroud 212.

The magnetic coupling configuration, exemplified in FIGS. 130-131 can beapplied to any of the previously exemplified configurations whichcomprise a driving assembly 436. In particular, magnetic coupling canallow coupling of the driving assembly 436 to the cleaning member 420and/or shroud 212 without an axial gap 444 in the cyclone sidewall 236.

Stop for Limiting Axial Translation of Cleaning Member and/or Shroud

Optionally, irrespective of the driving assembly used to translate thecleaning member 420 and/or shroud 212 from a storage (or operating)position, to one or more cleaned positions, a stopping mechanism may beprovided to limit axial movement of the shroud 212 and/or cleaningmember 420.

FIGS. 128-129 exemplify a configuration for limiting axial movement ofthe shroud 212 wherein each of the shroud and the cleaning member may bemoved concurrently and, optionally, wherein the cleaning member may bemoved separately from the shroud. In order to enable the shroud and thecleaning member to move concurrently and, subsequently, for the cleaningmember to move independent of the shroud, the cleaning member isremovably attachable to the shroud or a member attached to the shroud(e.g., a plate 562). Cleaning member may be removably attachable to theshroud or a member attached to the shroud by magnets or mechanicalinter-engagement members that are releasably connected together.

In the exemplified configuration, the driving assembly 436 comprises ahandle 440 in driving engagement with the cleaning member 420, throughaxial gap 444. As best exemplified in FIG. 129, a plate 562 surroundsand is attached to an axial outer end 212 b of shroud 212. Asexemplified, a stop structure 565 depends laterally from the plate 562(e.g., from a radial outer edge of plate 562), and extends across axialsidewall gap 444.

In the storage or operating position (FIG. 128), the plate 562 ispositioned axially above the cleaning member 420 (e.g., assuming thecyclone 170 is in an upright position), and the stop structure 565overlies the handle 440.

From the initial storage or operating position, the shroud 212 andcleaning member 420 (which as exemplified is attached to the plate bymagnetic coupling between plate 562 and the cleaning member 420) areconcurrently translated, part or all the way along the axial length ofthe cyclone chamber 176, into a cleaned position (FIG. 129A) by handle440.

As exemplified in FIG. 129A, the plate 562 may include one or moremagnets 569. Magnets 569 on plate 562 are attracted to plate 560,disposed on an axial upper surface of the cleaning member 420. Plate560, may be at least partially, comprised of magnetically attractablematerial (e.g., a magnet of an opposite polarity to magnets 569, orotherwise, a ferromagnetic material). Alternatively, rather than provinga plate 560, the cleaning member 420 may be formed of a magneticallyattractable material (or at least a portion of the cleaning member 420directed to plate 562). In still other cases, plate 560 or cleaningmember 420 may be formed of a magnetic material, and elements 569 maycomprise a ferromagnetic material. The cleaning member 420 and shroud212 may also be detachable connected to each other in any other suitablemanner known in the art.

As exemplified, magnetic coupling between plates 560 and 562 allows theshroud 212 to concurrently translate with the cleaning member 420, ashandle 440 is axially translated.

As exemplified in FIG. 128, a grooved (e.g., indented portion) 578 canbe formed along a depending wall 620, which laterally depends fromcyclone sidewall 236. As exemplified in FIG. 129B, when the shroud 212is translated downwardly to the axial height of grooved portion 578, thestopping structure 565 engages (e.g. abuts) the grooved portion 578, andthe grooved portion 578 delimits further downward axial movement of theshroud 212.

Handle 440 of cleaning member has a narrower portion that extendsthrough the gap 444 than stopping structure 565. Accordingly, as furtherexemplified FIG. 129B, upon engagement of the stopping structure 565with the grooved portion 578, cleaning member 420 magneticallyde-couples from magnets 569 on plate 562. The cleaning member 420 may beaccordingly further translated into a cleaned position (FIGS. 129C and129D) via handle 440, while the shroud 212 is retained in anintermediate cleaned position.

An advantage of this configuration is that the shroud 212 can betranslated part-way into the cleaned positon, so as to allow access toshroud 212 when door 352 is opened. Further, while the shroud 212 isretained in the intermediate cleaned position, the cleaning member 420can continue de-briding the exterior of the shroud 212 from dirt anddebris, by translating axially along the shroud surface (FIGS.129C-129D).

In other embodiments, rather than limiting axial movement of only theshroud 212, the stopping mechanism can delimit axial movement of boththe cleaning member 420 and shroud 212. For example, in embodimentswhere the cleaning member 420 and shroud 212 are not detachablyconnected, the shroud 212 and cleaning member 420 can translateconcurrently. Stopping structure 565 can then engage grooved portion 578to limit axial movement of the cleaning member 420 and shroud 212.Alternately, the portion of handle 440 that extends through the gap 444may engage stopping structure 565. Alternately, a second stoppingstructure may be provided axially spaced from stopping structure 565 tolimit the axial movement of cleaning member 420 after cleaning memberhas detached from shroud 212.

While the exemplified embodiments illustrate the stopping mechanismbeing used in conjunction with a handle 440, which extends through axialsidewall gap 444, it will be appreciated that, in other cases, thestopping mechanism can be applied to any of the previously exemplifieddriving assemblies. For example, where the handle assembly 436 does notextend through axial gap 444, the stopping structure 565 can be locatedinside the cyclone chamber 176, and can engage a grooved portion formedon the inner surface of the cyclone sidewall 236. For example, thedriving assembly 436 can comprise a rod 438, which extends through thefirst or second cyclone ends. The rod can drivingly engage the cleaningmember 420. In particular, the rod 438 can pass through shroud plate 562(e.g., an opening in the shroud plate 562) to drivingly engage thecleaning member 420. In this configuration, the rod 438 can translatethe shroud 212 and cleaning member 420, part way along the chamber'saxial length. Once stopping structure 565 engages a grooved portion ofsidewall 236, rod 438 can continue translating only the cleaning member420.

Biasing Mechanism for Securing Cleaning Member and/or Shroud in Cyclone“Use” or Storage Position:

Optionally, irrespective of the driving assembly 436 used to translatethe cleaning member 420 and/or shroud 212 from a storage position to oneor more cleaned positions, a biasing mechanism can be provided to biasone or more of the cleaning member 420 and shroud 212 in a storage orcyclone “in-use” position. An advantage of the biasing mechanism is toprevent the cleaning member 420 and/or shroud 212 from collapsing insidethe cyclone chamber 176, e.g., under gravitational force, during storageor cyclone use.

FIGS. 126-127 exemplify a first configuration for the biasing mechanismwhich uses magnets. In the exemplified configuration, one or moremagnets 564 are disposed at the first cyclone end 240. As exemplified,magnets 564 may be secured inside retention members 568 (retentionmembers 568 secure magnets 564 in position). As further exemplified, aplate 560 may be disposed over at least a portion of the cleaning member420 which is directed to the first cyclone end 240. In the exemplifiedembodiment, plate 560 is formed, at least partially, from a magneticallyattractable material (e.g., another magnet or a ferromagnetic material),which is attractable to magnets 564. In other embodiments, rather thanproviding a plate 560, all or a portion of the cleaning member 420,which is directed to the first cyclone end 240, and aligned with magnets564, may be formed of magnetically attractable material.

As exemplified in FIG. 126A, the magnetic attraction between magnets 564and plate 560 retains the cleaning member 420 in the storage or cycloneuse position. When it is desired to translate the cleaning member 420 toone or more cleaned positions, an axial force is applied (e.g., bydriving assembly 436) to de-couple magnets 564 from plate 560, and toallow translation of the cleaning member 420 to one or more cleanedpositons (FIGS. 126B-126D). FIGS. 127A-127D exemplify a similarconfiguration where the shroud 212 is concurrently moveable with thecleaning member 420. In other cases, magnet biasing can also be used tobias only a moveable shroud 212, in the storage or cyclone use position.

It will be appreciated that, in other embodiments, rather than usingmagnets 564, a ferromagnetic material can be disposed at the firstcyclone end 240, and plate 560 (or a portion of the cleaning member 420)may comprise a magnetic material. For example, magnets 564 may beprovided on the cleaning member 420 or a plate 560 and the end wall ofthe cyclone chamber may be made of or provided with a magneticallyattractable material.

FIGS. 133-134 exemplify another configuration for a biasing mechanismwhich comprise a spring. In the exemplified configuration, the biasingmechanism comprises a biasing spring 586, which is biased to acompressed position (FIG. 133B). As exemplified, spring 586 can bereceived within a hollow interior of a spring retention member 592,provided at the first cyclone end 240. In this configuration, spring 586may be secured in position such as by being attached at a first end to aclosed end 593 of retention member 592, and may be attached at a secondend to the cleaning member 420. As exemplified in FIGS. 134A-134E, asthe cleaning member 420 is translated to a cleaned position, the spring586 expands. Once handle 440 is released, the biased spring 586 retractsso as to automatically translate the cleaning member 420 back into thestorage position. An advantage of this configuration is that the user isnot required to manually return the cleaning member 420, back to thestorage position, after cleaning.

It will be appreciated that, in other embodiments, the configurationexemplified in FIGS. 133-134 can also be used to bias a moveablecleaning member 420 and shroud 212, or a moveable shroud 212, into thestorage or cyclone use position.

FIGS. 162-163 exemplify still another configuration for a biasingspring. In the exemplified configuration, a spring 682, which is biasedin the compressed position (FIG. 162B), is provided inside the cyclonechamber 176 and extends between the first cyclone end 240 and a plate562, attached around an axial outer end 212 b of shroud 212. Asexemplified in FIGS. 163B-163C, as the shroud 212 is translated to acleaned position, the spring 682 expands. Once handle 440 is released,the biased spring 682 may retract so as to automatically translate theshroud 212 back into the storage position.

It will be appreciated that, in other embodiments, the exemplifiedconfiguration in FIGS. 162-163 can also be used to bias a moveablecleaning member 420, or the combination of a cleaning member 420 andshroud 212, into the storage or cyclone use position.

Driving Assembly Re-Configurable Between Storage Position and UsePosition:

Optionally, the driving assembly 436 can be re-configurable between astorage position, and a use or operating position, wherein in the useposition, the driving assembly is drivingly connected to the cleaningmember and/or shroud, and the cleaning member and/or shroud are in thestorage position (for when the surface cleaning apparatus is used forcleaning). The driving assembly or handle may be pivotally moveable,telescopically moveable, translatably moveable or rotatably moveablebetween the use and storage positions. Alternately, or in addition, thedriving assembly may be flexible so as to enable the assembly to bemoved into a storage position.

FIGS. 109-110 exemplify a first embodiment for a re-configurable drivingassembly 436 wherein the driving assembly comprises two pivotallyconnected portions. In the exemplified configuration of FIG. 109, thedriving assembly 436 comprises an elongate member 438 which includes afirst member portion 4381 that is pivotally connected to a second memberportion 4382 by hinge 490. As exemplified, when the cleaning member 420and/or shroud 212 are in the storage position (e.g., FIG. 105), thefirst portion 4381 can pivot relative to the section portion 4382, aboutpivot axis 491, between a storage position (FIG. 109A) and an extendeduse position (FIG. 109B). As exemplified, in the storage position, thefirst portion 4381 is recessed towards the cyclone sidewall 236. Invarious cases, this allows the air treatment member 116 to be stowedaway for storage in small or tight compartments, e.g., when the surfacecleaning apparatus is in use or in placed in a closet for storage.

FIG. 110 exemplifies an alternative configuration in which the firstmember portion 4381 is pivotally connected to the second member portion4382 by two hinges 490 a, 490 b. As exemplified, the hinges 490 may beinterposed by a third member portion 4383. An advantage of thisconfiguration is that, in the storage position (FIG. 110A), the firstmember portion 4381 is co-extensive with, may be located along side orspaced from and adjacent) the cyclone sidewall 236. Accordingly, and incontrast to the configuration of FIG. 109A, in which where the firstmember portion 4381 is angled away from the cyclone sidewall 236, theconfiguration of FIG. 110A allows the air treatment member 116 to occupyless storage area when stowed away in small or tight compartments. Thisconfiguration also inhibits damage to the elongate member 438 whenstowed away for storage by preventing the first member portion 4381 fromcolliding with surrounding objects (e.g., because the member is notangled away from the cyclone chamber).

FIGS. 87-88 and 103 exemplify still another embodiment for are-configurable driving assembly 436 which uses a telescoping member.Any telescoping structure may be used. Accordingly, the driving assemblymay be reconfigured (telescoped) from a position in which a handle ofthe driving assembly is located at or proximate a surface of the surfacecleaning apparatus (a storage position) to a position in which thatdriving assembly is operable to move the cleaning member and/or shroud(the operating position). An advantage of this design is that thedriving member is less likely to be damaged when the surface cleaningapparatus is in use as the driving assembly (e.g., the handle) isretracted. This design may be used with any axially extending drivingassembly disclosed herein.

In the exemplified embodiment (FIGS. 87 and 88), the driving assembly436 comprises an elongate member 438 which has a telescopingconfiguration to allow rod 438 to expand from a storage position to anextended use position.

In particular, as exemplified, the rod 438 can comprise a first portion4381 which telescopes over a second portion 4382 (FIG. 87), or a firstportion 4381 which telescopes inside a second portion 4382 (FIG. 103)The first portion 4381 may collapse over or into the second portion 4382to reduce the axial height 450 of the elongate member (e.g., FIGS. 87Aand 87E) when the surface cleaning apparatus is in use. This may allowthe air treatment member 116 to be stowed away for storage in small ortight compartments. The first portion 4381 may also expand from thesecond portion 4382 to increase the axial height 450 of the elongatemember (e.g., FIGS. 87B-87D and 88). This may allow the elongate member438 to move the cleaning member 420 inside of the cyclone chamber overgreater axial distances.

As exemplified, when the cleaning member 420 and/or shroud 212 are inthe storage position (FIG. 87A), the elongate member 438 may start froman initial retracted storage position. The elongate member 438 may thenbe expanded to an in-use position (FIG. 87B), and used to translate thecleaning member 420 and/or shroud 212 to one or more cleaned position(FIGS. 87C and 88). When it is desired to return the elongate member 438back into the retracted storage position, the cleaning member 420 isfirst returned to the storage position (FIG. 87D), and the elongatemember 438 is then retracted back into the retracted storage position(FIG. 87E).

In some cases, an activation mechanism (e.g., a button) can be providedto expand or retract the member 438. The activation mechanism can beprovided, for example, on the first end 438 a of the elongate member438.

As exemplified in FIG. 103, the activation mechanism may comprise a rod704, which extends inside the hollowed interior of the first elongatemember 4381. The rod 704 can include a depressible button 702, at afirst end 704 a, and a catch member 706, at a second 704 b, wherein thecatch member 706 is configured as an ‘inverted fork’.

To expand the elongate member 438, button 702 is depressed downwardly,along translation axis 428 (FIG. 103B). This allows catch fork 706 toengage an oblong lock structure 708. The oblong lock structure 708comprises two rib members 708 a, 708 b, joined at their distal ends. Theoblong structure 708 is compressible, and is biased into an expandedposition (FIG. 103A).

As exemplified in FIG. 103A, pegs 710 a, 710 b extend outwardly fromeach rib 708. In the storage position (FIG. 103A), pegs 710 are insertedinto openings, located along the first elongate member 4381 and secondelongate member 4382. More specifically, a pair of openings 712 a, 712 bare formed along the first member 4381 to receive pegs 710. A secondpair of openings 714 a, 714 b are formed along the second member 4382,to also receive pegs 710. In the storage position, openings 712 and 714are aligned along a common axis. In particular, this allows pegs 710 a,710 b to insert into both openings 712 a, 714 a and 712 b, 714 b,respectively, and to lock relative movement of the first elongate member4381 to the second elongate member 4382.

As exemplified in FIG. 103B, once the oblong lock 708 is compressed byfork 706, pegs 710 are displaced, at least, from openings 714 (e.g.,formed on the second elongate member 4382). This permits relativemovement of first member 4381 to the second member 4382. The firstmember 4381 may then extend until openings 712 and 714 are misaligned(FIG. 103C). Once openings 712, 714 are misaligned, button 702 may bereleased (FIG. 103D), to disengage fork 706 from lock structure 708, andto allow the oblong structure 708 to re-expand.

As exemplified in FIG. 103E, the first member 4381 is extended untilopenings 712, of the first member 4381, re-align with a secondary set ofopenings 716, provided on the second member 4382. Once openings 712 and716 align, the oblong structure 708 automatically re-expands to forcepegs 710 through secondary openings 716. Accordingly, this generates alocking engagement between members 4381, 4382 in the expanded useposition (FIG. 87B).

If it is desired to re-retract the handle assembly 436 (FIG. 87E), thebutton 702 is again depressed to engage fork 706 with oblong structure708, and re-compress the oblong structure 708. This, in turn, displacespegs 710 from openings 716, and allows for relative movement of member4381 to member 4382. The elongate member 438 can then be retracted intothe storage position.

It will be appreciated that while two pegs 710 have been exemplified,the oblong member 708 may include any number of pegs, and the elongatemembers 438 may include any number of corresponding openings (712, 714and 716) to receive pegs 710.

Optionally, a biasing mechanism is provided to bias the activationmechanism 702 (e.g., button 702) in the un-depressed state (e.g., FIGS.103A, 103D-103E). As exemplified, the biasing mechanism can comprise abiasing spring 718. The spring 718 is provided inside of a chamber 720,located within the first member 4381 (e.g., proximal the first end 438 aof the elongate member 438). An interior wall 722, of chamber 720,includes an opening 724 to accommodate rod 704. As exemplified, spring718 is biased in the expanded position (FIG. 103A). In thisconfiguration, an axial force is required to depress the button 702, andcompress the spring 718. Once the button 702 is depressed and thenreleased, the spring 718 automatically expands to push the button 702axially upwardly into the initial un-depressed position. In this manner,a user is not required to manually extract the button after the buttonhas been depressed inwardly.

It will be appreciated that other telescoping locking systems may beused which do not require the use of a button 702. Any telescopinglocking system known in the art may be used.

FIGS. 161A-161D exemplify for the use of a telescoping driving assembly436 for moving a shroud. In the exemplified embodiment, the drivingassembly 436 comprises a telescoping elongate member 438. The elongatemember 438 is re-configurable between a retracted storage position (FIG.161B) and an expanded use position (FIG. 161C). In particular, asexemplified, in the storage position, a second elongate member 4382 isnested within a first elongate member 4381. A portion of the firstelongate member 4381 extends outside the cyclone chamber 176. The secondend 438 b ₂, of the second elongate member 4382, is attached to shroud212. As exemplified in FIG. 161C, the first member 4381 may telescope,axially outwardly (e.g., along translation axis 232) into a useposition. Optionally, a lock structure 708 is provided to limit theaxial extension of the first member 4381 relative to the second member4382. The lock structure 708 may operate similar to the oblong structure708 exemplified in FIG. 103. As exemplified in FIG. 161D, in theexpanded position, the elongate member 438 can be used to translateshroud 212 into a cleaned position.

As exemplified in FIGS. 157-160 a re-configurable handle assembly 436which uses a flexible Bowden cable. As previously discussed, the drivingassembly 436 comprises a flexible (or partially flexible material)elongate member 438. As exemplified, the handle assembly 436 may bendbetween a storage position (FIGS. 157 and 159), where the elongatemember 438 is positioned adjacent the cyclone sidewall 236, and anexpanded use positon (FIGS. 158 and 160). In the storage position, theair treatment member 116 can be stowed away in small or tightcompartments. In some cases, the member can be biased to the extendeduse position.

FIGS. 162-163 exemplify a further embodiment for a re-configurablehandle assembly 436 wherein the handle 440 is translatable. In theexemplified embodiment, the driving assembly 436 comprises a handle 440,drivingly engaged to a moveable shroud 212, through an axial gap 444.The axial gap 444 comprises a first lateral portion 692 a, proximal thefirst gap end 444 a, and a second laterally extending portion 692 b,proximal the second gap end 444 b. The first and second lateral portions692 are separate, for example, by a portion of the cyclone sidewall 236.

In the storage position, the handle 440 is disposed inside the firstlateral gap 692 a (FIG. 162A). The handle 440 is translated into a “use”position by laterally or radially translating the handle 440, out of thelateral gap 692 a, and into the axial gap 444 (FIG. 163A). In variouscases, this can also cause the shroud 212 to rotate inside the chamber176 (i.e., as the handle 440 is translated laterally). Optionally, asexemplified in FIG. 163D, once the shroud 212 is in the cleanedposition, the handle 440 can again be translated into the second lateralgap 692 b, to retain the shroud 212 in the cleaned position. It will beappreciated that only one lateral gap 692 a, lateral gap 692 b, may beprovided.

In other embodiments, rather than being drivingly engaged to shroud 212,the handle 440 can be drivingly engaged to a cleaning member 420, or thecombination of a cleaning member 420 and an attached shroud 212.

In a further optional embodiment, the handle 440 may be rotatable to astorage position. For example, as discussed in more detail subsequently,rod 438 shown in FIGS. 87A-87E may be rotatable about is longitudinalaxis so as to enable handle 440 to be rotated between an in use and astorage position (see for example FIG. 94B). In the storage position,the handle 440 may be positioned adjacent a portion, e.g., of thecyclone assembly and, optionally may be prevented from moving axially byseating on resting member 504. The handle may be rotated away from thestorage position to an in use position (see FIG. 95B) in which thehandle is no longer seated on resting member 504 and is axiallymoveable.

Handle Assembly Extending Along a Portion of Air Treatment Member

Optionally, the driving assembly 436 can extend along (adjacent) aportion of the air treatment member 116. An advantage of thisconfiguration is that the driving assembly 436 does not need to bere-configured from an in-use position to a storage position in-order tostow away the air treatment member 116 for storage. Further, thisconfiguration can also prevent damage to the handle assembly 436 duringstorage or use, as the driving assembly 436 is protected by a portion ofthe treatment member 116.

FIGS. 89A-89B exemplify a first configuration for a driving assembly 436which extends along a portion of the air treatment member 116. Asexemplified, the air treatment member 116 comprises a first cyclonicstage 168 ₁ positioned over a second cyclonic stage 168 ₂. The drivingassembly 436 comprises an elongate member 438 drivingly engaged to acleaning member 420 and/or shroud 212 inside the second cyclonic stage168 ₂. As exemplified, the elongate member 438 extends parallel to eachof the first and second cyclonic stage 168 (e.g., the rod 438 isco-extensive with the cyclonic stages). Accordingly, in thisconfiguration, the elongate member 438 can translate the cleaning member420 and/or shroud 212 between the storage position (FIG. 89A) and one ormore cleaned positions (FIG. 89B), without deployment (e.g.,re-configuring the elongate member 438 from a storage position to anextended use position).

FIG. 111 exemplifies another configuration for a handle assembly 436which extends along a portion of the air treatment member 116. In theexemplified configuration, the driving assembly 436 comprises anelongate member 438, and the elongate member 438 extends parallel to,and is co-extensive with, the external dirt chamber 172. In theexemplified embodiment, the external dirt chamber 172 has an axiallength which is greater than the cyclone chamber 176. Optionally, asexemplified, the external chamber 172 has an axial length which issubstantially equal to the axial length of the elongate rod 438, whenthe rod 438 is configured in the storage position.

In various cases, as exemplified in FIG. 94, where the driving assembly436 extends along a portion of the air treatment member 116, a handle440 of the driving assembly 436 may be configurable to move (e.g.,rotate) between a storage position (e.g., FIG. 94) and an in-useposition (e.g., FIG. 95), about translation axis 428. In the storageposition, the handle 440 is recessed toward the cyclone unit 170.Optionally, a resting member 504 is located on a track 430 to receive(e.g., rest) the handle 440 in the storage position. Preferably, theresting member 504 is positioned such that when the handle 440 is restedthereon, the cleaning member 420 is also positioned in the storageposition (e.g., proximal the first cyclone end). The resting member mayprotect the handle from being accidentally actuated while the surfacecleaning apparatus is in use. The handle may accordingly be movedoutwardly into an in-use position (e.g., FIG. 95), whereby the handle440 is usable to axially move the handle assembly. In various cases,where the handle assembly 436 comprises an elongate member 438 whichtravels through a track 430, an axial gap may extend axially along thetrack 430 to accommodate axial movement of the handle 430 (e.g., axialgap 447 in FIG. 118D).

While the exemplified embodiments have illustrated the driving assembly436 is extending along one or more cyclonic stages, or an external dirtchamber, it will be appreciated that, in other embodiments, the drivingassembly 436 may extend along, and be co-extensive with, any otherportion of the air treatment member 116 or a surface cleaning apparatus.For example, in other cases, the driving assembly 436 may beco-extensive with the suction motor housing 164.

Alternative Cleaning Mechanisms

FIGS. 164-166 exemplify other embodiments for cleaning, at least, theshroud 212. In these embodiments, the shroud is remove via the outletend of the cyclone chamber to enable the shroud to be cleaned.

As exemplified, shroud 212 is attached (e.g., integrally or detachably)to a lid 562. As exemplified, lid 562 can surround the axial outer end212 b of the shroud 212. The lid 562 is located axially above the firstcyclone end 240 (e.g., assuming the cyclone 170 is in an uprightposition), which the air outlet end of the cyclone chamber. Asexemplified, in this configuration, the lid 560 can be used to pull theshroud 212 from a storage or use position (FIGS. 164B, 165A and 166B),in which the shroud 212 is located inside the cyclone chamber, to acleaned position (FIGS. 164C, 165B and 166C), in which the shroud 212 isdisposed outside the cyclone chamber 176.

Optionally, as exemplified in FIG. 166, a handle 440 can be attached(e.g., integrally molded or detachably connected) to lid 562, tofacilitate pulling the shroud 212 out of the cyclone chamber.Optionally, an elongate member 438 may depend from the handle 440, andcan be receivable inside an external track 430, located adjacent thecyclone 170. In various cases, insertion of the elongate member 438inside the track 430 can help secure the shroud 212 inside the cyclone170 in the storage or use position.

Optionally, as exemplified in FIGS. 164-165, a biasing mechanism can beprovided to bias the shroud 212 into the cleaned positon. In theexemplified embodiment, the biasing mechanism comprises a spring 682,which is biased in an expanded state (e.g., a compression spring). Asexemplified, the lid 562 may be spaced from the first cyclone end 240,and a sidewall 563 may depend axially from the lid 562, and extend tothe first cyclone end 240 when the lid 562 is in the closed position.The biasing spring 682 may be provided between the lid 562 and the firstcyclone end 240. As exemplified, a latch 674 can secure the lid 562 inthe closed position (FIGS. 164B and 165A), and hold the spring 682 inthe compressed position. Latch 674 may be rotatably secured to thecyclone sidewall 236 by a hinge 814. When the latch 674 is rotated away(e.g., about pivot axis 814 a), the spring 682 may automatically expandto push the shroud 212 into the cleaned position (FIGS. 164C and 165B).

Door Lock Mechanism

Optionally, in any of the embodiments discussed herein, a door lockingmechanism may be provided to lock or unlock a bottom openable door 352of the cyclone 170. The door lock may secure the door 352 in the closedposition during storage or use of the air treatment member 116. The doorlock may also be unlocked to enable a door (e.g., an end wall of thecyclone) to open to thereby permit the dirt collection chamber 172and/or cyclone chamber 176 to be emptied, as well as to provide accessto the cleaning member 420 and/or shroud 212. The door locking mechanismmay be actuated (e.g., moved to the unlocked position) by movement ofthe handle 440 or the driving assembly to a cleaned position.

FIGS. 121-122 exemplify an embodiment of a door locking mechanism 486which is positioned axially spaced from and aligned with a driving rod438 that forms part of the driving assembly so as to be engageable bythe driving rod 438. As exemplified, the driving rod 438 may dependaxially from the handle 440.

As exemplified, the locking mechanism 486 comprises a first lock member530 and a second lock member 534. As best exemplified in FIG. 122A, eachlock member includes a respective first end 530 a, 534 b and arespective opposed second end 530 b, 534 b.

Optionally, the first end 530 a, of the first lock member 530, cancomprise a concave surface (e.g., a cup shaped surface). The concavesurface engages the second end 438 b of the elongate member 438 when theelongate member 438 is translated axially downwardly toward the secondcyclone end 244 (e.g., assuming the cyclone is in an upright position).

As exemplified, the second end 530 b, of the first lock member 530, ispivotally joined to the second lock member 534 (e.g., the first end 534a of the second lock member 534). In the exemplified embodiment, thefirst lock member 530 is configured as a “V” shaped member, which pivotsabout pivot point 536.

The second end 534 b, of the second lock member 534, is slidablyreceived inside of slot 542, disposed on a first depending portion 540of door 352. Second end 534 b is also slidably received inside slot 538,disposed on a second depending portion 236 a of cyclone sidewall 236.

In the locked position (FIG. 122A), slots 538, 542 are substantiallyaxially aligned, and the second lock member 534 extends through eachslot 538, 542. In this configuration, the second lock member 534prevents opening of door 352.

When it is desired to open door 352, the second end 438 b, of theelongate member 438, engages (i.e., applies an axial downward force) tothe cup-shaped end 530 a, of the first lock member 530. This, in turn,pivots the first lock member 530 about pivot point 536. As the firstlock member 530 pivots, it urges the second lock member 534 upwardly(e.g., through a pivotal connection). In particular, as the second lockmember 534 is urged axially upwardly, second lock member 534 is slidablyremoved (e.g., radially inwardly) from slot 538 (on cyclone sidewall 236a), and unlocks door 352. In this manner, the door 352 is able to rotateinto the open position (FIG. 122B).

FIGS. 123-124 exemplify another embodiment for a door locking mechanism486 which is also engagable by a driving rod 438 that forms part of thedriving assembly.

In the exemplified embodiment, the cyclone 170 comprises an openablefirst sidewall portion 248. As exemplified, the unlocking mechanism 486comprises a flexible member 612, which depends from the first sidewallportion 248. The flexible member 612 comprises a first end 612 a and asecond end 612 b, wherein the second end 612 b is disposed axially abovethe first end 612 a (e.g., assuming the air treatment member 116 is inthe upright position). In the exemplified embodiment, the first end 612a is attached (e.g., integrally molded) to the first sidewall portion248. The second end 612 b comprises a hook-shaped formation, formed froma first lateral surface 614, and a second slanted lateral surface 616,wherein the second lateral surface 616 is located axially above thefirst surface 614.

In the locked position (FIGS. 123B and 124B), the first lateral surface614 rests on a flange 618 (e.g., rib or peg), which extends outwardlyfrom the second cyclone sidewall portion 252. Accordingly, sidewallportion 248 is held in the closed position by engagement of the lateralsurface 614 on the flange 618.

To unlock the lock mechanism 486, the second end 438 b, of the elongatemember 438, is translated toward the second cyclone end 244, and appliesan axial downward force to the slanted surface 616. This, in turn,compresses (i.e., forces downwardly) the slanted surface 616, and causesthe lateral surface 614 to displace from the flange 618. Accordingly,this allows the first sidewall portion 248 to rotate with respect to thesecond sidewall portion 252. The elongate rod 438 may unlock the lockingmechanism 486, and further push the sidewall portion 248 into the openposition by continuing to applying an axial force to the slanted surface616.

While the lock mechanism 486 in FIGS. 123-124 has been exemplified withrespect to a sidewall 236 having an openable sidewall portion, it willbe appreciated that the same lock configuration can be applied tosecure, e.g., a bottom openable door 352 in the closed position. Forexample, the first end 612 a of the flexible member 612 may be attached(e.g., integrally molded) to a portion of door 352, and the flange 618may extend from the cyclone sidewall 236.

In other embodiments, the driving rod 328 may not actuate a door lockingmechanism 486, but rather, may simply push the bottom door 352 into theopen position. For instance, as exemplified in FIGS. 93A-93C, the door352 may extend to at least partially underlie the driving rod 438 (ortrack 430). In this configuration, the driving rod 438 is translatedtoward the second cyclone end 244, and the second end 438 b, of theelongate rod 438, engages the door 352, and pushes the door 352 into theopen position. Such a design may be used, e.g., with a manually openabledoor.

FIGS. 106-108 exemplify still another configuration for a door lockingmechanism 486 in which the cleaning member 420 and/or the screen 212 maybe used for unlocking the openable door 352.

In the exemplified embodiment, and as best exemplified in FIG. 107, theopenable door 352 is retained in the closed position by a lock member498. The lock member 498 includes a first end 498 a and an axiallyopposed second end 498 b. The second end 498 b holds the door in thelocked position by extending through opening 542 on depending portion540, and opening 538, on depending sidewall portion 236 a.

As exemplified, a peg 806 is disposed on a lower surface (e.g., face),of the cleaning member 420, which faces the second cyclone end 244. Asexemplified in FIG. 107A, upon translating cleaning member 240 towardthe second cyclone end 244, peg 806 is receivable inside of a smallopening 808, formed through the second cyclone end 244, and engages anoptional flexible seal member 488. Upon engagement, the peg 806 deformsthe seal member 488, and causes the seal member 488 to engage anactivation mechanism 492. In the exemplified embodiment, the activationmechanism 492 comprises an electronic sensor (e.g., a pressure sensor),which is activated when engaged by the flexible seal 488. Onceactivated, the electrical sensor 492 transmits an electrical signal, viawire 496, to a motor unit 494. The activated motor unit 494 pulls (e.g.,draws) the locking member 498 out of the opening 538, to unlock the door352. When it is desired to re-lock the door 352, the locking member 498may be, for example, manually re-inserted into openings 538, 542 whilethe door 352 is in the closed position. It will be appreciated that peg806 may alternately mechanically engage and actuate the lockingmechanism.

FIG. 108 exemplifies a similar configuration where door 352 is unlockedby screen 212. In the exemplified configuration, the cleaning member 420and screen 212 are translated concurrently through the cyclone chamber176. As exemplified, the screen 212 includes a peg 806, disposed on anaxial inward surface 212 a of the screen 212. When the screen 212 istranslated to the second cyclone end 244, peg 806 extends through theopening 808, and activates the activation mechanism 492 to unlock door352. In other cases, peg 806 may be provided at different locationsalong the screen 212. For example, peg 806 may be located (or formed) oncleaning prongs 462, which axially depend from screen 212 (FIG. 90C). Inthese cases, the prongs 462 can have a greater axial length than shroud212 to engage the locking mechanism before shroud 212 engages the secondcyclone end 244.

It will be appreciated that the configuration exemplified in FIG. 108can also be used where a cleaning member 420 is not provided, and thecyclone comprises only a moveable shroud 212. It will also beappreciated that, in other embodiments, the driving rod 438 can extendbeyond the cleaning member 420 and/or shroud 212, and the peg 806 can bedisposed at an axially inward end 438 b of the driving rod 438. Forexample, the cleaning member 420 and/or shroud 212 may attach to amid-portion of the driving rod, rather than to the second end 438 b (asexemplified), such that the driving rod 438 can extend beyond thecleaning member 420 and/or shroud 212. In particular, in thisconfiguration, the driving rod 438 can be used to unlock the lockmechanism 436 from inside the cyclone chamber 176.

FIG. 164 exemplifies another embodiment for a door locking mechanismwherein the actuator is not part of the handle 440 or the drivingmechanism.

As exemplified in FIG. 164, a first latch 672 is provided to secure thedoor 352 in the closed position. In the exemplified embodiment, latch672 is rotatably secured to the cyclone sidewall 236, proximal thesecond cyclone end 244, by hinge 812. As exemplified in FIG. 164B, latch672 includes a slot 672 a, which receives a flange 816 extending fromdoor 352. A second latch 674 is also provided, proximal the firstcyclone end 240, and is used to secure the lid 562. The first and secondlatches 672, 674 are connected to each other by a retraction rod 684.

As exemplified in FIG. 164C, when the second latch 674 is rotated awayfrom the cyclone 170 to release lid 562, the retraction rod 684 causesthe first latch 672 to also rotate away, along rotation axis 812 a. Inthis manner, the door 352 is opened concurrently with release of the toplid 562.

It will be appreciated that while the exemplified locking mechanismshave been illustrated with respect to an openable door 352, provided atthe second cyclone end 244, similar locking mechanisms can be used tolock a top openable door 390, provided at the first cyclone end 240(e.g., in cases where the cyclone 170 is an inverted cyclone).

It will also be appreciated that any locking mechanism known in thevacuum cleaner arts may be used and that the locking mechanism may bedirectly engagable and actuatable by the handle 440 itself, the drivingmechanism, the cleaning member and/or the shroud.

While the above description provides examples of the embodiments, itwill be appreciated that some features and/or functions of the describedembodiments are susceptible to modification without departing from thespirit and principles of operation of the described embodiments.Accordingly, what has been described above has been intended to beillustrative of the invention and non-limiting and it will be understoodby persons skilled in the art that other variants and modifications maybe made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined inthe claims appended hereto. The scope of the claims should not belimited by the preferred embodiments and examples, but should be giventhe broadest interpretation consistent with the description as a whole.

1. A vacuum cleaner or extractor comprising: (a) an air flow pathextending from a dirty air inlet to a clean air outlet; (b) an airtreatment member having an air treatment chamber positioned in the airflow path, the air treatment chamber comprising an air treatment chamberair inlet, an air treatment chamber air outlet, an openable first end, alongitudinally spaced apart second end having the air treatment chamberair outlet and a longitudinally extending sidewall, wherein the airtreatment chamber air outlet comprises a longitudinally extending porousmember having a longitudinally extending porous sidewall; (c) a suctionmotor positioned in the air flow path; (d) a moveable member positionedin the air treatment chamber, the moveable member comprising at leastone of the porous member and a cleaning member positioned in the airtreatment chamber between the sidewall of the air treatment chamber andthe porous sidewall; and, (e) a driving assembly comprising a handle anda driving linkage, the driving linkage comprises a longitudinallyextending drive rod having a longitudinally extending axis, the driverod is rotatably mounted about the longitudinally extending axis betweena stored position in which the moveable member is in a stored positionand an operable position in which the moveable member is translatablethrough at least a portion of the chamber, wherein, in the storedposition, the handle is longitudinally spaced from the first and secondends of the air treatment chamber, whereby, when the driving assembly isin the operable position, the driving assembly is operable tolongitudinally translate the moveable member through at least a portionof the chamber.
 2. The vacuum cleaner or extractor of claim 1 whereinthe driving linkage comprises an extendable member wherein, in thestored position, the extendable member is in a contracted configurationand, in the operable position, the extendable member is in an extendedconfiguration in which the handle is operable to longitudinallytranslate the moveable member through at least a portion of the chamber.3. The vacuum cleaner or extractor of claim 2 wherein the extendablemember comprises a telescoping drive rod.
 4. The vacuum cleaner orextractor of claim 1 wherein a portion of the driving linkage isexterior to the air treatment chamber and in the stored position, theportion of the driving linkage is recessed against a portion of thevacuum cleaner or extractor.
 5. The vacuum cleaner or extractor of claim4 wherein, in the stored position, the portion of the driving linkage iscoextensive with the portion fimof the air treatment member.
 6. Thevacuum cleaner or extractor of claim 2 wherein the extendable member isexterior to the air treatment chamber and in the contractedconfiguration, the extendable member is recessed against a portion ofthe vacuum cleaner or extractor.
 7. The vacuum cleaner or extractor ofclaim 6 wherein, in the contracted configuration, the extendable memberis coextensive with a portion of the air treatment member.
 8. The vacuumcleaner or extractor of claim 1 wherein, in the stored position, aflange that extends from an outer surface of a portion of the vacuumcleaner or extractor impedes the handle translating the moveable memberthrough at least a portion of the chamber and in the operable positionthe handle is rotated away from the flange.
 9. The vacuum cleaner orextractor of claim 8 wherein, in the stored position, the handle abutsthe flange.
 10. The vacuum cleaner or extractor of claim 1 furthercomprising a stop member operably engageable with the driving assemblyto inhibit the driving assembly moving to the operable position whereinthe step member comprises an abutment surface that is part of anexterior surface of the vacuum cleaner or extractor.
 11. The vacuumcleaner or extractor of claim 1 wherein the moveable member is moveablefrom an operating position in which the moveable member is positionedtowards the second end and a cleaned position in which the moveablemember is translated longitudinally away from the second end.
 12. Thevacuum cleaner or extractor of claim 11 wherein in the cleaned position,at least a portion of the moveable member is exterior of the airtreatment chamber.
 13. The vacuum cleaner or extractor of claim 1wherein the moveable member comprises the cleaning member and thecleaning member is moveable from an operating position in which thecleaning member abuts the second end and a cleaned position in which themoveable member is translated longitudinally away from the second end.14. The vacuum cleaner or extractor of claim 1 wherein the cleaningmember comprises an annular member.
 15. A vacuum cleaner or extractorcomprising: (a) an air flow path extending from a dirty air inlet to aclean air outlet; (b) an air treatment member having an air treatmentchamber positioned in the air flow path, the air treatment chambercomprising an air treatment chamber air inlet, an air treatment chamberair outlet, an openable first end, a longitudinally spaced apart secondend having the air treatment chamber air outlet and a longitudinallyextending sidewall, wherein the air treatment chamber air outletcomprises a longitudinally extending porous member having alongitudinally extending porous sidewall; (c) a suction motor positionedin the air flow path; (d) a moveable member positioned in the airtreatment chamber, the moveable member comprising at least one of theporous member and a cleaning member positioned in the air treatmentchamber between the sidewall of the air treatment chamber and the poroussidewall; and, (e) a driving assembly comprising a handle and a drivinglinkage, the driving linkage comprises a longitudinally extending driverod having a longitudinally extending axis, the drive rod is rotatablymounted about the longitudinally extending axis between a storedposition in which the moveable member is in a stored position and anoperable position in which the moveable member is translatable throughat least a portion of the chamber, wherein, in the stored position, aflange that extends from an outer surface of a portion of the vacuumcleaner or extractor impedes the handle translating the moveable memberthrough at least a portion of the chamber and in the operable positionthe handle is rotated away from the flange, whereby, when the drivingassembly is in the operable position, the driving assembly is operableto longitudinally translate the moveable member through at least aportion of the chamber.
 16. The vacuum cleaner or extractor of claim 15wherein the driving linkage comprises an extendable member wherein, inthe stored position, the extendable member is in a contractedconfiguration and, in the operable position, the extendable member is inan extended configuration in which the handle is operable tolongitudinally translate the moveable member through at least a portionof the chamber.
 17. The vacuum cleaner or extractor of claim 15 whereina portion of the driving linkage is exterior to the air treatmentchamber and in the stored position, the portion of the driving linkageis recessed against a portion of the vacuum cleaner or extractor. 18.The vacuum cleaner or extractor of claim 15 wherein, in the storedposition, the handle abuts the flange.
 19. The vacuum cleaner orextractor of claim 15 wherein the moveable member is moveable from anoperating position in which the moveable member is positioned towardsthe second end and a cleaned position in which at least a portion of themoveable member is exterior of the air treatment chamber.
 20. The vacuumcleaner or extractor of claim 15 wherein the moveable member comprisesthe cleaning member and the cleaning member is moveable from anoperating position in which the cleaning member abuts the second end anda cleaned position in which the moveable member is translatedlongitudinally away from the second end.